A Norwegian court has sentenced six Belgian soldiers to prison terms ranging from 21 to 60 days for their involvement in a massive brawl in Åndalsnes, according to the Molde public prosecutor’s office. Two other soldiers were acquitted.
The eight Belgians, aged 22 to 34, were involved in the altercation on the night of Saturday, 17 February, to Sunday, 18 February, near a café. Witnesses and footage documented the incident. The soldiers were in Åndalsnes for a military exercise.
The prosecutor had demanded a 60-day prison sentence for three soldiers and sentences of 21, 24, or 30 days for the others.
Ultimately, the court imposed prison sentenced on six soldiers: two to 60 days, two to 30 days, and two to 21 days. Two soldiers were acquitted due to insufficient evidence.
Both the soldiers and the public prosecutor can appeal the verdict.
When asked if the soldiers involved could remain active in the military, the Defence press service stated Belgium's Defence Ministry was aware of the verdict but would not comment further while the possibility of an appeal remains.
“It is crucial that all parties have the opportunity to appeal and that the judicial process is fair and transparent, without external interference,” it said.
