Trade union ACV has called for better protection for staff of the Flemish public transport operator De Lijn in an open letter to outgoing Home Affairs Minister Annelies Verlinden and Flemish Mobility Minister Annick De Ridder.
On Sunday, an inspection team was attacked both verbally and physically, according to ACV. The incident occurred in Rocourt, near Liège, while the team was checking passenger tickets. ACV reported that the staff were threatened with a knife and communication issues left the dispatch unavailable. Allegedly, no support came from the Liège police.
The ACV asked De Ridder (N-VA) to maximise driver protection and resolve communication problems.
To Verlinden (CD&V), ACV has requested measures to ensure the safety of inspectors and drivers, and to respond promptly to calls from public services.
The union also suggests deploying a second staff member on all vehicles, particularly during evening hours and in high-risk areas. This would support staff and enhance passengers' sense of security.
ACV criticised the fact that the incident occurred on an outdated vehicle lacking a secure driver's cabin and cameras. The vehicle was previously classified as an "end of life" vehicle according to ACV.
