Belgian police to be better armed

Belgium's police unions are reassured after a meeting with interior minister Jan Jambon, CrisisCenter Belgium and threat analysis unit OCAM/OCAD. There is talk of better arming the police agents, including officer assistants. As a result, there are no strike actions planned for the time being. The unions asked for additional security following Saturday's attack on two police officers in Charleroi, writes Bruzz.

The decision requires more police agents and their assistants to carry a weapon while on duty. Approval of a Royal Decree next month will make the armament possible. Police chiefs across the country are therefore being asked to start making preparations for the training and equipping of the additional officers.

Minister Jambon is at the same time working on a Royal Decree that will make it possible for him to decide when agents may be allowed to take their weapons home with them. It will also empower the minister to determine when agents should be required to carry their weapons at all times, even on days off.