The violent riots occurred on Saturday, August 8, 2020 around 5:20 PM on the beach of Blankenberge, near the Weststraat stairs. Families on a day trip and other sunbathers suddenly found themselves in the middle of a fight. A group of young people also turned against the rescuers and police officers. The troublemakers threw everything they could get their hands on, including sand, chairs, loungers, parasols and abandoned toys.
Three troublemakers were arrested on the spot and subsequently arrested by the investigating judge. Further investigation later made it possible to identify other suspects. Ultimately, the public prosecutor’s office decided to request a referral to the Bruges criminal court for five adult suspects. They had to answer for armed unruliness and intentional assault and battery on September 25.