2 dead, 2 seriously wounded in Brussels shooting
Published on: Thursday, June 27, 2024
By: AFP
Brussels’ regional authorities this year identified Saint Gilles as a drugs hotspot among 14 others in the capital’s 19 districts. (AFP pic)
BRUSSELS: Two people were shot dead and two others gravely wounded on Thursday in an area known for drug trafficking near the Gare de Midi train station in Brussels, police said.
The incident occurred between 1am and 2am local time near a cafe in the Saint Gilles district of the Belgian capital and the suspect or suspects fled, a police spokesman said.
ADVERTISEMENT
In total, three people were wounded. Two are in a life-threatening condition, while a third is stable, the local police department said.
Brussels’ regional authorities this year identified Saint Gilles as a drugs hotspot among 14 others in the capital’s 19 districts.
Police have not thus far established a link between the shooting and the city’s illegal drug trade.
Judicial officials were due to make a statement later on Thursday.
ADVERTISEMENT
In recent years, Belgium has seen a rise in armed violence linked to rivalries between drug trafficking gangs.
There have been shootouts in the streets in Brussels and in Antwerp, whose port has become the main entry point into Europe for cocaine imported illegally from Latin America.
ADVERTISEMENT
Stay up-to-date by following Daily Express’s Telegram channel.
Daily Express Malaysia
* Follow us on Instagram and join our Telegram and/or WhatsApp channel(s) for the latest news you don't want to miss.
* Do you have access to the Daily Express e-paper and online exclusive news? Check out subscription plans available.