A man suspected of killing two Swedish soccer fans in Brussels has been found dead by police. The suspect, who has not been named, was tracked down in the Belgian capital after a manhunt was launched. The attack is believed to be a terror-related incident.
A man accused of killing two Swedish soccer fans in a suspected terror attack in Brussels has been found dead after a police operation in the Belgian capital. The suspect, whose identity has not been disclosed, was located by authorities following a manhunt that was launched after the tragic incident on Monday night.
Interior Minister Annelies Verlinden confirmed the news of the suspect’s death, expressing gratitude to the intelligence and security services as well as the public prosecutor’s office for their swift action. Verlinden also revealed that the suspected murder weapon had been recovered by the police.
According to authorities, the person responsible for the attack had previously stated on social media that they were influenced by the ideology of the Islamic State. The incident occurred during an international soccer match between Belgium and Sweden, leading to the game’s abandonment at halftime upon hearing news of the shootings.
Belgium’s Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, conveyed his condolences to Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, emphasizing the importance of unity in the fight against terrorism. As a result of the attack, the threat level in Brussels was raised to 4, the highest level, while the general threat level for Belgium increased to 3.
Despite the heightened threat level, prosecutors have stated that there is no evidence linking the attack to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Videos circulating on social media captured the terrifying moments of the incident, showing a person in an orange jacket brandishing what appeared to be a firearm and firing shots in the street and inside a building.
As this is a developing story, more updates are expected to follow. The tragic event has once again highlighted the ongoing challenges faced by authorities globally in combatting acts of terrorism, and the need for continued vigilance in ensuring public safety..