Brussels’ Prosecutor Calls for Drug Gang Crackdown After Shootings

On Friday, Brussels chief prosecutor Julien Moinil called for a tougher crackdown on drug trafficking gangs after a surge in shootings; officials reported 69 incidents this year and 170 since 2025.
Turf wars between two rival drug gangs drive the violence, with groups competing for control over more than 200 dealing points across Brussels that generate substantial daily revenues.
Masked assailants on a scooter attacked Salvatore’s pizzeria last Monday with an AK-47, turning it into a crime scene; such incidents have targeted businesses and police stations recently.
Authorities responded this week by deploying 40 additional police officers and mobile cameras; Brussels South Police chief Jurgen de Landsheer emphasized the city maintains no “no-go zones” despite challenges.
Police arrest individuals as young as 12 recruited as foot soldiers by gangs, while residents like 70-year-old Murielle report safety has deteriorated in the past six months.