The National Crisis Centre has opened 46 new cases in the first half of this year involving individuals threatened due to their professional or social roles, according to De Zondag.
Currently, 89 active cases are under investigation, involving a total of 134 individuals, Dominique Maris from the National Crisis Centre told the newspaper.
The 46 newly opened files pertain to 59 people. Belgian citizens who face threats in carrying out their official duties, professions, or societal roles are eligible for protective measures provided by the centre. These individuals include politicians, police officers, and magistrates.
“Every threat is analysed by the Threat Assessment Coordination Body (OCAD) and the federal police,” Maris explained. “Our services then determine specific measures for each case and person involved, and we oversee their implementation in collaboration with police services.”
The protection measures vary widely. They can range from assigning a dedicated contact at the local police department, prioritised assistance during emergency calls, and regular patrols, to constant police presence near the individual’s home or workplace.
In exceptional cases, those at risk may be relocated to a safe house for their protection.
