Four Brussels police injured in attack in Matongé

Four police officers in the Matongé neighbourhood of Ixelles in Brussels were injured in an attack by a group of youths, the Brussels prosecutor’s office has announced. The 19-year-old at the source of the attack is in custody.

The youth was approached by the police during a routine drugs check. The man refused to show his identity card, spat at police and called on help from friends.

Others joined in, throwing terrace furniture, causing damage to the police car and injuries to the officers. The original youth, who was known to the police for assault and drugs crimes, was arrested and held. Four police have been declared unfit for work for four to 22 days.

Photo: Nicolas Maeternlinck/Belga