Brussels and Antwerp plan house arrest for hooligans on New Year’s Eve

Authorities in Brussels and Antwerp are exploring preventive house arrests for known troublemakers during New Year’s Eve celebrations. The proposed measures aim to avoid violent incidents like those seen in previous years. Brussels is also considering a curfew for minors in certain areas.

For the third consecutive year, Antwerp mayor Bart De Wever plans to impose house arrests on individuals with a history of disruptive behaviour during New Year’s Eve. This year, nearly 50 young people are set to be confined to their homes under the measure. Police will conduct regular checks to ensure compliance and prevent any breaches during the festivities.

Curfew for minors

Following Antwerp’s lead, Brussels municipalities are considering similar measures. The city's mayors are discussing the use of house arrests to prevent disturbances, though no decisions have been made. The initiative comes after a tumultuous New Year’s Eve in 2023, during which 206 people were arrested and numerous vehicles and electric scooters were set on fire.

In addition to house arrests, Anderlecht mayor Fabrice Cumps has announced a curfew for under-16s in the Cureghem neighbourhood, near Midi station. From 19.00 on New Year’s Eve, teenagers will not be allowed on the streets without a parent.

At a recent meeting of Brussels’ 19 mayors, the proposal gained traction. Vincent De Wolf, mayor of Etterbeek, said that while the measure was initially proposed by Anderlecht and Saint-Gilles, other municipalities expressed strong interest. 

^{#FlandersNewsService | Fireworks during New Year's Eve celebrations in Brussels © BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}