“Two people wanted to commit a violent robbery this morning at a Western Union office,” confirms Sarah Frederickx, spokeswoman for the Brussels South police zone. “One person escaped, but was later arrested. His companion is still alone in the building. He’s holed up in the basement with a gun. We are currently waiting for the federal police and instructions from the special forces to apprehend the man.” The man could now be arrested after negotiations with the special units. That happened without incident, the public prosecutor’s office confirms.
“I wanted to visit my grandchildren in Fortstraat around 10 am,” says local resident Mounira. “But I was not allowed into the street. Both boys, 16-year-old twins, are now trapped in the apartment. They are alone and are not allowed out. “I told them to stay inside and away from danger.” For now, the safety perimeter will remain in place.