Key facts
- Brussels' top prosecutor, Julien Moinil, criticizes the lack of resources to combat escalating drug violence.
- Over 100 drug-related shootings occurred in Brussels in 2025, with more than 65 so far this year.
- A police station was attacked by individuals on a scooter, marking an escalation in criminal targeting of law enforcement.
- Authorities are deploying an additional 40 police officers to problem areas.
- Drug-dealing points in Brussels can generate up to €50,000 daily.
Shootings linked to drug trafficking have become a regular occurrence in Brussels over the past two years, with over 100 incidents in 2025 and more than 65 so far this year. A pizzeria in the central St Gilles area, near the Midi train station, was recently targeted, with bullet impacts visible on the premises. The owner, Salvatore, described the incident as terrifying, with clients present. This was the third shooting in the neighborhood in three days. Residents like Murielle, who has lived in the area for 70 years, have noted a significant increase in drug dealing activity and violence in the past six months, with consumers now seen queuing to buy drugs.
According to Jurgen de Landsheer, chief of Brussels South Police, successful drug-dealing points can generate up to €50,000 per day, contributing to the rise in organized crime violence. There are over 200 such points across the city. De Landsheer stated that gangs are adopting methods seen in Marseille, France, but insisted Brussels has not reached the same level of violence and does not have 'no-go zones.' The violence has escalated to the point where a police station was attacked by individuals on a scooter who shot at the building. Police are arresting young people, some as young as 12, who are given weapons and missions for minimal pay, posing a significant danger to the community due to stray bullets.
In response to the surge in violence, Belgian authorities announced that an additional 40 police officers would be deployed to the affected areas. De Landsheer emphasized the need for prevention over repression, highlighting that society must provide young people with a future and opportunities. Salvatore expressed that the violence needs to stop, as residents are losing sleep and property values are declining. Murielle hopes the worst is over and that residents will not be intimidated.