BRUSSELS

Drug-related violence is rising steadily across Belgium, raising growing concerns over public safety as police and judicial authorities struggle with staff shortages and limited resources, Belga news agency reported on Monday.

The Flemish Peace Institute (Vlaams Vredesinstituut) recorded 184 firearm-related incidents in Belgium in 2024, with shots fired in 65% of the cases, according to a report.

These incidents resulted in at least 20 deaths and 81 injuries, with Brussels identified as the "main hotspot for gun-related violence," according to a report from the institute.

Researchers said the Belgian drug market has become increasingly competitive due to rising demand and growing production and import volumes, attracting new criminal groups and intensifying market rivalries. This competition has contributed to an escalation in violence.

The availability of weapons also remains a key concern. Despite tighter gun legislation introduced in 2006, authorities continue to face challenges linked to the circulation of illegal firearms, often connected to drug trafficking networks.

While most violent incidents currently occur in Brussels, Antwerp and parts of Limburg, researchers warned of a possible geographical spread to other regions if underlying structural problems remain unaddressed.

The rise in violence comes as Belgium’s police and judiciary face mounting pressure from recruitment difficulties, budget constraints and growing caseloads, prompting local authorities to warn that their capacity to contain the situation may be further strained if current trends persist.