Belgian Interior Minister Bernard Clerfayt visited the Antwerp maritime police inspection, which is responsible for combating drug trafficking in Europe’s largest cocaine supply hub. The authorities have decided to increase the number of maritime police officers at the port by 100.
Antwerp remains a key entry point for drugs into Europe. Last year alone, more than 7,000 people were checked at the port, and since the beginning of 2024, 51 suspects have already been detained—mostly so-called “collectors” who extract drugs from containers and smuggle them out of the port.
According to Belgian police, drugs worth approximately €71 million have been seized since the beginning of the year, the majority of which is cocaine. Tightening measures against drug-related crime is one of the priorities of the government led by Prime Minister Bart De Wever. Authorities have stepped up efforts following a surge in drug-related violence in Brussels.
Over the past two weeks, six shootings have occurred near the “Clemenceau” metro station in Anderlecht, resulting in two fatalities. In response, the Interior Minister and Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden held emergency meetings, leading to the decision to reinforce police patrols in Brussels and Antwerp.
