Interior Minister Bernard Quintin (MR) is seeking explanations from the police regarding the use of rubber bullets on protesters during the march in tribute to young Fabian on Sunday, as reported by Het Laatste Nieuws and De Standaard on Tuesday.
Several hundred people gathered peacefully on Sunday for the tribute march to Fabian, a minor who was fatally struck by a police car in Ganshoren. However, disturbances later broke out, and the police used a water cannon, tear gas and rubber bullets to control about 20 protesters.
Two officers were armed with orange FN303 rifles, which fire rubber bullets. Alarmingly, one of these rifles was used near a playground where children were present.
In response, the police district said that rubber bullets are only used by a special team responsible for arrests. During these disturbances, fewer than 20 rounds were fired, according to the police, who emphasised that these weapons are used exclusively for self-defence. Although rarely deployed, these weapons are always available to officers of this team, the police added.
An internal report will now be compiled by the involved officers in accordance with standard procedure.
Minister Quintin stated that he will seek explanations from the police. "The use of such ammunition is regulated. I have asked the police district to inform me precisely about what happened and how the situation is being handled."
