Mayor of Sint-Gillis calls for federal police after shooting incident

On Monday evening, a shooting occurred at Deux Bancs Square in Sint-Gillis, where children sitting at a table on the terrace of a pizzeria were close to the gunfire. Mayor Jean Spinette (PS) has expressed his concerns about safety in the city, given the increasing incidents of violence.

In response to the incident, Spinette has requested the assistance of federal police. He mentioned that he comforted children who were present during the shooting. "I am beside myself. Help must come," Spinette said on Tuesday morning.

Together with the mayors of Anderlecht and Vorst, Spinette has called for a federal action plan to combat violence. The joint response from these mayors highlights the seriousness of the situation in Brussels, leading to an urgent demand for more support.

Criminologist Jelle Janssens (UGent) pointed out that having more police is not a solution in itself for the ongoing drug-related violence in Brussels. He argues that it is important how people and resources are deployed in addressing these issues.

The discussion on addressing violence in Brussels comes at a time when mayors are increasingly pressing the national government for a more effective response. Recent incidents have heightened concerns among residents and local officials.

The continuing shootings in the capital remain a complex issue that requires not only more police but also effective strategies to tackle the underlying causes of the violence.