Following the protests against cuts in Francophone education in the Brussels downtown over the past few days, 23 people have been referred to the public prosecutor’s office. These include six adults aged between 18 and 48 and 17 minors aged between 14 and 17.
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Prosecutors quiz 23 individuals after Francophone education cut protests, also probe into possible police violence
Colin Clapson
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Being referred to the public prosecutor’s office means that people detained by the police are questioned by the public prosecutor, who then decides whether suspects are released or are questioned by an examining magistrate who may decide on their arrest.
Various criminal offences were committed during the protests. These include resisting arrest, throwing objects at the police and shops, damaging vehicles, and attempts to set fire to share e-scooters and rubbish bins.
Three adults have been sent summons via fast-track summary justice procedures and will soon have to answer to the criminal court. Five people with no previous convictions have seen criminal proceedings against them suspended, albeit on certain conditions. Fourteen minors (aged between 14 and 17) have appeared in a juvenile court.
The Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office takes these incidents very seriously. “The right to demonstrate and freedom of expression are fundamental rights, but violence and vandalism will not be tolerated,” it says. Several investigations are currently ongoing to identify other perpetrators.
In addition, the public prosecutor’s office has confirmed that complaints have been received about police violence during the protests. A separate criminal investigation has now been opened that will look into each of these complaints.