To tackle drug-related crime in the Brussels-Capital Region and more specifically in the Peterbos neighbourhood in Anderlecht, authorities are taking new strict measures to allow the police to act more decisively in the area.
Earlier this year, the Peterbos housing estate in Anderlecht came into the spotlight following numerous incidents of drug violence, with residents of the high-rise apartments having sounded the alarm about drug gangs taking over the neighbourhood.
"The aim is to reduce crime in the neighbourhood and once again increase the quality of life for residents through a visible and dissuasive police presence," the Brussels Midi police zone said in a press release.
The Anderlecht authorities and the Brussels Midi police zone have now implemented a number of new measures, supported by the Brussels Public Prosecutor's Office, which will allow the police to act even more decisively in the neighbourhood. "These measures apply to anyone within the Peterbos perimeter."
Security searches and fines
Since early March, the Anderlecht municipality, the federal and local police and other partners have been closely involved in security and liveability in Peterbos, and other similarly affected neighbourhoods. From now on, the police will patrol the neighbourhood at different times of day and conduct organised actions, both in terms of drugs and road safety.
Any person entering the Peterbos 'perimeter' (see map below) may at any time be asked to identify themselves and additionally be subject to a security search. Additionally, all people who do not live in that perimeter can be banned from entering until 16 May. This measure can be renewed each time for a duration of two months.
Peterbos perimeter. Credit: Brussels Midi police
All dangerous items or items encouraging drug use may also be confiscated by the police. Lastly, a total ban on alcohol consumption in public places is taking effect, not just in Peterbos but in the entire municipality of Anderlecht.
Administrative and police arrangements were also made with the Immigration Department, which provides places in the closed centres to remove drug criminals staying irregularly in Belgium from the territory.
The municipal orders will be reviewed every two months and renewed if necessary; the other measures will remain in force as long as necessary.
Priority
At the same time, the Brussels Public Prosecutor confirmed consultations with the various partners were taking place, as well as a multidisciplinary approach to tackle the specific problems in the Peterbos neighbourhood.
"Drug trafficking and drug-related violence have always been a priority for the Prosecutor's Office, which is acutely aware of the scale of the problem and will pay close attention to ensuring that offences committed receive a rigorous and appropriate judicial response," the Brussels Public Prosecutor's Office said.
The 'Peterbos' neighbourhood, in Anderlecht, Brussels. Credit: Belga / Hatim Kaghat
In the near future, the Prosecutor's Office will also work with immediate out-of-court settlements (designed to avoid long, expensive and difficult proceedings through the courts) in this district.
Adults found in possession of drugs or certain banned weapons can be offered an out-of-court settlement. In practice, this means they will receive a fine, to be paid immediately or within a short period of time to close the case. This approach is very often used in road safety cases, as the purpose of this procedure is to deal quickly with minor crimes.
A review of the situation on the ground with the various partners involved will take place on a regular basis.
