On Friday, police in the Midi zone conducted controls targeting drug users in Saint-Gilles.
The operation focused on Bethléem Square, a known drug dealing hotspot, and was part of a new plan to combat violence related to drug trafficking. In recent weeks, the capital has been shaken by several shootings in broad daylight, involving firearms, connected to gang rivalries.
The action on Friday was carried out in collaboration with the Brussels public prosecutor’s office and the Foreigners’ Office. Twelve drug users were fined on the spot, and police made six administrative arrests for illegal residence. Five of these individuals were detained in closed centres, and an unaccompanied minor was placed in a shelter.
One individual, suspected of being a trafficker, was handed over to the prosecutor’s office.
Police also issued two official reports for money laundering. They seized €3,000 and just over $250.
The area around Clemenceau metro station in Anderlecht has repeatedly witnessed shootings as drug traffickers compete fiercely for control of sales territories. Similar incidents have occurred in recent months in the Bethléem Square area in Saint-Gilles and Saint-Antoine Square area in Forest.
On 15 February, a 19-year-old man was shot dead near Clemenceau station. Two days later, a man was shot in the leg at Saint-Guidon Square in Anderlecht.
