Local police arrested five persons on Wednesday evening, during a major operation around De Coninckplein in Antwerp-Noord, targeting nuisance-related issues in the area.
Antwerp-Noord has recently been under scrutiny due to incidents such as a fatal stabbing and other violence and drug-related issues, prompting residents to call for greater attention from the city council and police.
The police said the operation was not merely a symbolic action but part of the ongoing and comprehensive efforts by the Antwerp Police Zone in the neighbourhood. The law enforcers checked for illegal residency and compliance with the street alcohol ban.
Five people were arrested for public intoxication, breaching the alcohol ban, illegal residency, and possessing prohibited weapons or items considered as such, like screwdrivers and box cutters.
Additionally, one individual was offered an immediate settlement for drug possession, and two others for carrying illegal weapons.
