Six individuals sustained injuries, with two in critical condition, following a violent incident involving a knife attack at a prominent tourist destination. The distressing event transpired in Antwerp, Belgium, during a pro-Kurdish demonstration near the bustling Operaplein square. Law enforcement swiftly apprehended two suspects shortly after the assault. A spokesperson disclosed that four individuals were wounded at Operaplein, all of whom suffered stab wounds. Medical teams promptly provided aid to the victims, with two suspects subsequently arrested.
Local reports indicated that four of the injured individuals were located at Operaplein, while the fifth and sixth victims were found near Rooseveltplaats and Sint-Elisabethstraat. Images captured at the scene depicted police officers subduing a suspect before making an arrest. Approximately 50 protesters attended the rally, with law enforcement already present. Witnesses attested that the demonstration had been peaceful until chaos ensued, with individuals running in various directions. Eyewitnesses reported that a group suddenly brandished knives and began attacking people on the building’s steps.
The incident occurred as the demonstration was concluding around 7:30 p.m. Footage from a nearby building showed emergency services rushing to the location as locals expressed fear. Another video circulating on social media displayed a victim receiving medical attention on the ground. Wouter Bruyns, the spokesperson for the Antwerp Police Zone, informed DeMorgen that officers successfully apprehended the suspects who had blended in with the demonstrators, where Kurdish and PKK flags were being displayed.
An active police investigation, supported by forensic experts, is underway at the square. Authorities have advised the public to vacate the area and avoid lingering at Operaplein.
