Cocaine and crack trafficking in the European Union’s capital city of Brussels has escalated into a deadly gang war, leaving the population fearful and authorities grappling with a surge in drug-related violence. Shootings among rival gangs have become increasingly common, with dealers unrelenting in their pursuit of territory. The Saint-Gilles district, in particular, has been a hotspot for these violent clashes, resulting in casualties and heightened tensions.
The recent spate of shootings in Saint-Gilles, including one that occurred on a day of celebration before Lent, has sparked alarm nationwide. Belgian authorities are acknowledging the urgent need for increased security measures to combat the growing influence of mafia-like criminal organizations. The Interior Minister has emphasized the importance of continued investment in security, stating that recent events have made it clear that this is a necessity.
Antwerp, Belgium’s main port city and a key entry point for Latin American cocaine cartels into Europe, has long been plagued by gang violence. However, the issue has now spread throughout the entire country, with drug trafficking infiltrating various facets of society. The Brussels public prosecutor’s office regularly announces significant arrests and seizures of drugs and cash, signaling the gravity of the situation.
The rise of crack cocaine and the brazen open drug dealing in central neighborhoods over the past year have intensified an already dire situation. Petty theft, fights, and harassment of tourists have become daily occurrences in the nation of 11.5 million people. Police data from 2023 revealed that seven individuals lost their lives and 131 were injured in drug-related violence in Brussels alone. Last year, nearly a quarter of the federal police’s investigative capacity was dedicated to drug-related cases across Belgium.
In the face of criminal organizations with cross-border connections, urgent action is necessary. The strong presence of mobsters from Albania and Marseille adds to the complexity of the issue. Justice Minister Paul Van Tigchelt expressed confidence in the capabilities of the police and justice system to address the problem effectively. However, the Mayor of Saint-Gilles emphasized the need for dismantling criminal networks and called for swifter prosecution to counter the pervasive sense of impunity.
In Saint-Gilles, a neighborhood characterized by pockets of poverty alongside gentrified streets filled with trendy establishments, the ease of access and central location make it an attractive hub for drug dealers. Despite periodic police operations, dealers return shortly after shootings, leaving residents frustrated and disheartened. The Porte de Hal zone, in particular, has witnessed an influx of drug users who disrupt the lives of residents and business owners, resulting in smashed windows and a deteriorating environment.
The consequences of the surge in drug-related violence are felt at the grassroots level, with business owners and residents no longer tolerating the unbearable situation. The urgency to address this issue cannot be understated, and the pleas for action from affected individuals and communities are growing louder.
As the battle against drug trafficking and gang violence intensifies, Belgian authorities face an uphill battle to restore peace and security. The need to dismantle criminal networks and prosecute offenders swiftly is evident. The public’s demand for action reflects the urgent nature of the situation. It is imperative that authorities prioritize the safety and well-being of citizens in order to reclaim the streets from ruthless drug dealers and restore a sense of peace and security to Brussels, the heart of the European Union.
