Gun violence in Brussels: Prosecutor demands more resources to combat drug gangs
Around 170 firearms incidents have been registered in Brussels since 2025. Prosecutor Moinil warns: "Anyone can be hit by a bullet."
Brussels prosecutor warns of escalating gun violence
Gun violence in Brussels has reached alarming levels according to investigators. As reported by DER SPIEGEL (Justice & Crime), Prosecutor Julien Moinil warned in stark terms on Friday: "Anyone can be hit by a bullet." In recent days, attackers in the Belgian capital have repeatedly opened fire with automatic weapons—including on a police station.
Since 2025, around 170 firearms incidents have been registered in Brussels, 69 of them in the current year alone. Two people were killed in the violent attacks in 2025. In June, unknown assailants opened fire on a crowd; several people were killed and injured.
Moinil attributes most of the attacks to territorial disputes between rival drug gangs. He is calling for the arrest of gang leaders, many of whom are based abroad. Additionally, the authorities must ensure that imprisoned leaders of criminal groups cannot coordinate further violence from prison. The police need more resources for investigations against the gangs, Moinil emphasised.
Belgium is regarded as one of the most important entry points for drug smuggling in Europe; the port of Antwerp serves as a central hub for overseas drug shipments. According to Moinil, around 350 bars and restaurants in Brussels have been closed since 2025 due to connections to drug trafficking. Furthermore, 3,500 luxury vehicles have been seized.