Brussels prosecutors step up crime crackdown under new chief
Since Julien Moinil became Brussels’ chief prosecutor on 1 January 2025, the city’s public prosecution service has taken a much tougher line on crime. New figures show sharp rises in arrests, prosecutions and fast-track court cases.
According to the annual report released on Friday, the number of adults referred to prosecutors jumped from 3,852 in 2024 to 10,569 in 2025. Arrest warrants also doubled, from 1,092 to 2,222. More suspects were questioned and released under conditions, while rapid court summonses for offences such as theft, drugs and assault almost tripled.
Shootings in the capital have continued to rise, with 101 recorded in 2025 compared with 91 the year before. Moinil introduced a strict policy that every crime should receive a judicial response, aiming to tackle growing public fears about safety.
Prosecutors also used on-the-spot financial settlements far more often, especially for drug offences, allowing suspects to pay fines immediately rather than go to court.
The tougher approach has affected young offenders too. Cases involving minors increased sharply, with far more teenagers being referred to prosecutors for violent crime and drug dealing.
However, the crackdown is putting heavy pressure on the justice system. Prisons are becoming more overcrowded, and courts say they are struggling with the workload. Youth institutions also lack enough places, meaning some arrested teenagers had to be released.
Moinil said his office had not received extra resources beyond filling existing posts. He warned that authorities now face a choice: continue the tough line or drop some cases. “For me, the choice is clear,” he said. “Justice must do its job. It is up to politicians to provide the resources needed.”
© BELGA PHOTO JONAS ROOSENS