Brussels could soon see soldiers patrolling its streets as part of a plan to tackle mounting drug-related violence in the city. Security and Home Affairs Minister Bernard Quintin confirmed that the decision to deploy troops has been made, with final operational details pending.
Quintin argues that the army’s role in defending the nation extends beyond borders. “The war against drug crime also falls under the protection of our territory,” he told De Standaard. Soldiers, working alongside police, would focus on metro stations and crime hotspots such as the Peterbos district in Anderlecht.
The proposal follows a troubling surge in shootings—57 so far this year, with 20 in summer alone. Brussels prosecutor Julien Moinil, himself under police protection after threats from traffickers, has warned that innocent residents risk being caught in the crossfire. Despite requesting €10 million to bolster security, Moinil says he has yet to receive adequate resources.
Defense Minister Theo Francken confirmed that the legal framework for military deployment is ready and will be submitted to the Council of Ministers. “Our capital is a disaster in terms of security. We need to take back control,” Francken posted on X.
Not everyone supports the plan. Frédéric De Gucht of the Flemish liberal Open VLD party questioned why the government hasn’t first granted Moinil’s funding request, noting it requires no new legislation.
The initiative is part of a broader “large cities” security strategy covering Antwerp, Ghent, Liège, Charleroi, and Mons, and includes measures such as expanded camera surveillance.
The debate comes as Brussels remains mired in political deadlock after failing to form a regional government since the June 2024 elections. Some political leaders, including Quintin’s own MR party members, are calling for fresh elections or national government oversight of the capital.
If approved, soldiers could be on the streets “as soon as possible,” Quintin says—marking a rare instance of military involvement in domestic law enforcement in Belgium’s recent history.
