The Brussels’ court of Assizes (the highest court in Belgium) has sentenced eight individuals involved in the 2016 bombings on Friday evening.
Three main co-perpetrators, Oussama Atar, Osama Krayem, and Bilal El Makhoukhi, have received life sentences for their roles in the attacks.
Atar, believed to have since died in Syria and tried in his absence, also got 14 years. Krayem, known as the bomb maker, and El Makhoukhi, the cell’s ‘trusted man’, both received an additional 10-year term.
Mohamed Abrini, the ‘man in the hat’, received 30 years plus 5 years under supervision. Ali El Haddad Asufi was handed 20 years with 10 years under supervision. Meanwhile, Salah Abdeslam, already serving time in Belgium and France, received no additional sentence.
Two individuals linked to the terrorist cell but not directly to the attacks were affirmed their previous sentences. Sofien Ayari maintained his 20-year term, while Hervé Bayingana Muhirwa kept his 10 years sentence and was fined 3,000 Euros.
Judge Laurence Massart emphasized societal values, stating, “Our society is multicultural and relies on universal rights and tolerance”. She suggested the sentences not only reflect the gravity of the crimes but also encapsulate hope for everyone affected.
Further legal proceedings concerning civil interests will occur on 20 September.
