Belgium: Authorities arrest suspect following earlier vehicle-ramming incident in central Brussels Aug. 26 /update 2

Event

Belgian security services have arrested the suspect of an earlier vehicle-ramming incident that occurred in central Brussels at around 13:00 Aug. 26. The suspect was apprehended in Antwerp at around 16:00.

At least six people are reportedly injured after the van struck patrons seated outside a cafe on Rue Saint-Michel. The suspect fled the scene and police discovered the vehicle used in the suspected attack a short distance away on Rue du Meridien. Authorities have yet to provide additional details about a motive for the incident or the identity of the perpetrator. Officials temporarily raised the terror threat level to 3 out of 4 during the manhunt, but this has since been returned to the previous level of 2 following the suspect's arrest.

Police are maintaining security cordons around sections of Boulevard Adolphe Max and Place de Brouckere, in addition to Rue Saint-Michel, while the emergency response and investigations are ongoing. Access disruptions are possible at Brouckere Metro. Security related disruptions are also likely around Rue du Meridien as security services investigate the vehicle involved in the incident.

Advice

Avoid the incident site and surrounding area. Plan for localized disruptions. Adhere to the instructions of security personnel.