Belgium’s Interior Minister Bernard Quintin (MR) visited the municipalities of Molenbeek-Saint-Jean and Anderlecht on Thursday, areas recently shaken by drug-related armed violence.
During his visit, the minister met with around ten neighbourhood committees and local residents.
"Being present on the ground and engaging directly with citizens is essential for me,” Quintin said following the visit. “It also allows us to inform people about the actions we have already taken.” The press was not invited to the discussions to ensure everyone could speak freely, his office noted.
Earlier in the day, the minister held meetings with acting Molenbeek Mayor Amet Gjanaj (PS), acting police chief of the Brussels-West zone Xavier Legrand, and representatives from the federal police. He then toured the troubled neighbourhood of Cureghem in Anderlecht and other areas in Molenbeek.
A group of around 60 community organisation representatives also gathered to share their perspectives with the minister. Quintin, seeking further insights into necessary security measures against narcotrafficking, learned that criminals often evade capture by using electric scooters.
“I also came to these neighbourhoods to show my support for the residents,” Quintin said. “The fight against organised crime and armed violence is a priority for me, and I will take all necessary actions within my remit to address these issues,” he added.
Sources close to the minister revealed that he is working on a new urban security plan. This initiative will reportedly focus on tackling organised crime not only in Brussels but in other major cities across the country as well.
