Six people were injured on Thursday evening in Antwerp near the Operaplein (Opera Square), where a demonstration was taking place. All victims suffered stab wounds and two are in critical condition, police spokesperson Wouter Bruyns said in a statement. Two suspects have been arrested.
Four injured people were found on the square itself, with two others located nearby. Emergency services responded with multiple teams to provide first aid and transport the victims to hospital.
The demonstration, attended by around 50 people, was initially peaceful, Het Laatste Nieuws reports. Kurdish flags and flags of the Kurdistan Workers’ Party (PKK) were waved during the protest. However, shortly after the demonstration ended at around 7.20 p.m., the situation escalated.
According to Bruyns, police were able to apprehend two suspects who, based on initial findings, had mingled with the demonstrators. An extensive investigation is under way at the scene, including forensic work. Police have urged bystanders to leave the area and not to remain on site.
The police are unable to provide further details at this time.
#FlandersNewsService | © BELGA PHOTO ROBBE VANDEGEHUCHTE
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