Belgian Christmas markets are strengthening their security following a recent attack in Magdeburg, Eastern Germany, and a heightened threat level assessed by the country's Coordination Unit for Threat Analysis (OCAM), Belga News Agency reports.
At around 19:00 on Friday evening, a SUV suddenly ploughed through the local Christmas market in Magdeburg, hitting pedestrians over a stretch of 400 metres. Five people have now been confirmed dead by German media, including a child. Over 200 are said to have been injured, according to Belga News Agency.
The suspected perpetrator has been arrested but his motive remains unclear. He is not known to have any ties to jihadist movements.
Following Friday's attack, local police in Brussels are following OCAM's recommendations but are prepared to adjust their security plans if needed. Security measures include both undercover and uniformed officers, as well as physical barriers, said Commissioner Linda Camarero-Verde.
"We have both plainclothes and uniformed squads attending Plaisirs d'Hiver/Winterpret. Security measures have also been taken at various points around the event. These include flower boxes and other physical obstacles," said Camarero-Verde.
Police officer walks through an empty and closed off Christmas market where a car crashed into a crowd killing four and seriously injuring more than 40 people the evening before, 21 December 2024 in Magdeburg, eastern Germany. Credit: John Macdougall / AFP / Belga
Elsewhere in Belgium, Antwerp has increased its security measures. Police units, including motorbike arrest teams, will have a more visible presence in addition to the existing large police deployment.
Charleroi will maintain its current security measures.
In Liège, security measures have been strengthened for several years and the city relies on an extensive urban camera network, said Mayor Willy Demeyer.
Access points to festive areas in Liège are secured with barriers to prevent vehicular entry. Regular security meetings are held, and the situation is continuously assessed, stated spokesperson Laurence Comminette.
