Residents demand action after two automatic-weapon shootings in Saint-Gilles
Two automatic-weapon gunshots hit the "des deux bancs" square in Saint-Gilles, leaving at least 18 bullet impacts, and prompted local residents to call for stronger public measures.
A recent incident in Saint-Gilles saw automatic-weapon fire rain on the "des deux bancs" square, a spot associated with drug trafficking, resulting in at least 18 bullet impacts documented by investigators. Juliette, a local mother of three, lamented that this was the second shooting in the area within a few days, recalling a previous Kalashnikov discharge nearby. An older resident described the location as a crack and marijuana dealing hub and predicted further shootings.
Feeling the basic social contract had failed, Juliette joined forces with other citizens to stage a public meeting demanding concrete actions from officials, especially in education and supervision of idle youth exploited by gangs. The community hopes these demands will lead to improved safety measures and reduced gang violence in the neighborhood.
Why it matters
The shootings highlight growing gang violence in Brussels and spur local calls for stronger public safety and youth support policies.
In this story
