Belgium: Islamic State claims May 29 Liège attack /update 2

Event

On Wednesday, May 30, the Islamic State (IS) released a statement claiming responsibility for the attack in Liège that left three people dead, including two police officers. IS claimed that the attacker was a “soldier of the caliphate” and that the attack was carried out in response to the group’s call for individuals to target the countries that are members of the US-led coalition that targets the group in Syria. Authorities are still investigating the motive of the incident, stating that the attacker had been in and out of prison for various crimes since 2003.

Context

The attack took place on May 29 on Avroy Boulevard near the corner with Augustin Street. According to officials, the assailant was a prison inmate who was on a two-day furlough. The man attacked the two police officers with a knife before stealing their firearms and shooting them. He then crossed the street and opened fire on a passenger in a car. The attacker subsequently took refuge at the Waha High School, holding a woman hostage for a short period before being shot and killed by police.

Advice

Individuals in Liège are advised to monitor developments to the situation and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.