Botanique in Brussels targeted for upcoming terrorist attack
Botanique in Brussels targeted for upcoming terrorist attack
Media reports, which were confirmed by the authorities, revealed that on Sunday, March 3, four young individuals, three of whom are minors, were apprehended for plotting an attack on the Brussels-based concert venue Botanique as evidenced by their communications in which the four were looking for weapons. Upon receiving this news, Botanique’s team promptly sprang into action, implementing thorough monitoring protocols and maintaining continuous communication with law enforcement over the weekend.
The decision was made however to carry on with the scheduled events and concerts, adhering to prevailing safety norms. “Should further details emerge, comprehensive measures will be deployed to safeguard the well-being of attendees, performers, and employees”, so the venue communicated this evening.
Botanique underscores the fact that post-2015 and 2016 attacks, its security framework was significantly bolstered, introducing enhanced safety protocols at entry points and throughout the venue, a practice that has been consistently upheld and periodically assessed.
Meanwhile, other key Brussels concert venues remain vigilant yet have not introduced additional security enhancements to date. A spokesperson for Mayor Philippe Close (PS) of Brussels, who also presides over the ING Arena (previously Palace 12) through his chairmanship of Brussels Expo, confirmed the diligent surveillance of the situation by proficient police forces, noting no specific security enhancements have been requested. The City of Brussels also manages the Magdalene Hall and the Royal Circus.
In a related development, eight individuals were arrested in Brussels and Antwerp as part of an anti-terrorism operation. These arrests, which included raids in various municipalities, were due to the individuals’ apparent readiness to conduct a terrorist attack. Some of them were previously identified as radical Islamic extremists, with two under surveillance as potential risks. This operation is part of Belgium’s ongoing vigilance against terrorism, evidenced by several incidents this year.
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