Several policemen were injured during the trade union demonstration in defence of pension rights, Brussels police say. According to a police press release: ‘Some fire-fighters attacked our colleagues. Several policemen were injured. In the process, teargas was briefly used.’
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Police officers injured in incident between firefighters at pensions’ demo
Colin Clapson
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According to reports a group of several dozen firefighters deviated from the agreed route of the march and intended to block traffic on the inner Brussels orbital ring road ‘Kleine Ring’ at the Namur Gate.
‘These acts have no place in a peaceful demonstration, and we deeply regret this,’ the police release reads. ‘We condemn any form of violence and stress the importance of respect and cooperation between all parties involved. We will thoroughly investigate this incident and take the necessary measures to prevent its recurrence in the future.’
Brussels fire brigade reacts to incident between police and firefighters
‘We regret this confrontation between the police and some firefighters,’ the Brussels Fire Brigade says.
‘On New Year's Eve, police officers and firefighters stood side by side at work and demanded respect for their profession, so let's also show respect to law enforcement officers. This behaviour does not reflect our values. We are able to make our demands calmly and with dignity.’
The fire service further speaks of an investigation to establish the circumstances and identity of the troublemakers.