BRUSSELS, Feb. 21 (Xinhua) -- Belgium will establish a government task force, led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever, to coordinate efforts in tackling drug-related violence, the government announced on Friday.
The decision follows a series of shootings in Brussels, largely linked to drug networks, which have raised growing concerns over organized crime.
The task force will unite key government agencies, centralizing resources to combat criminal activity more effectively. As an immediate measure, 15 additional officers will be deployed on Monday to reinforce the Brussels Federal Judicial Police. Meanwhile, investigations into arms trafficking, including cases involving military-grade weapons, will now be handled at the national level.
Security measures across the capital will also be intensified, with an increased police presence in metro stations and in Anderlecht, a district that has experienced a surge in violence, including several deadly shootings.
Ministers of justice, finance, and defense will participate in the initiative. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin emphasized that the task force will enhance coordination between government agencies and streamline the state's response to drug-related crime.
The Belgian government aims to curb the rise in drug-related crime through reinforced policing, stricter judicial measures, and closer international cooperation. ■
