Belgium: Police searching for terrorist suspect July 6

Event

On Thursday, July 6, Belgian prosecutors announced security forces are looking for at least one suspected terrorist after conducting a raid in the Anderlecht suburb of Brussels. The raid, carried out on Wednesday, July 5, resulted in the detentions of two suspects and the discovery of a large stash of weapons. Officials said that they are afraid the suspected terrorist still on the run could be planning to conduct an attack. Anticipate a heightened security presence across the city in the coming hours and days and remain vigilant.

Context

According to police sources, the two men being held are brothers and are linked to a motorcycle gang called the Kamikaze Raiders. Members of the gang have been connected to a number of terrorist plots, including an alleged plan to attack Brussels on New Year’s Eve in 2015.

Belgium remains on high alert for incidents of domestic and international terrorism after coordinated attacks at Brussels-Zaventem International Airport and the Maalbeek metro station on March 22, 2016, killed over 30 people and wounded more than 300 others. The Islamic State (IS) militant group claimed responsibility for both attacks. The national threat level is currently at "three," the second-highest rating.

Advice

Individuals in Belgium, particularly in Brussels, are advised to monitor the situation, remain vigilant, and report any suspicious objects or behavior to the relevant authorities.