The city of Brussels warns football fans that rucksacks and firecrackers will be banned

As the World Cup 2018 kicked off in Russia, football fans have been advised to not carry rucksacks or let off firecrackers, particularly if they are celebrating in the Bourse area.

Brussels mayor Philippe Close confirmed last week that city authorities and police have put in place an action plan to “maintain a festive atmosphere” in the centre of the city.

The plans follow major incidents at the Bourse in November following Morocco’s qualification for the World Cup. Fights broke out, shop windows broken and a car set on light.

A report into the riots has been published by the P committee (which polices the police), pointing out failings in the organisation and preparation of the police, reports RTBF. It highlighted a lack of material with officers increasingly older in age, as well as the fact that local police zones could not reply on assistance from the federal police.

Photo: Luc Claessen / Belga