Dozens arrested after clashes and vandalism during strike in Brussels

Brussels police have arrested several dozen people following violent incidents during Belgium’s national day of action on Tuesday. The arrests came after masked demonstrators threw projectiles, paint bombs, and fireworks at the Immigration Office (DVZ) building on Pacheco.

Police said they “regret that acts of vandalism have marred the national strike day.” Around 80,000 people took to the streets of Brussels, according to police estimates, while unions claimed between 100,000 and 120,000 participants.

Tensions flared early in the day. At around 7 a.m., a fire was deliberately set at IJzerplein, causing significant traffic disruption. Protesters also erected barricades on Kroonlaan and Keizer Karellaan, which were later dismantled by police to ensure safety and maintain access for emergency services.

In the afternoon, clashes broke out near Pacheco, where masked demonstrators attacked police and damaged the Immigration Office building, shattering 44 windows. Riot police responded with tear gas and water cannon, arresting several individuals at the scene.

^{© BELGA VIDEO HELEEN DE BISSCHOP}

Later, chaos also erupted at Brussels Central Station. Demonstrators vandalised the Hilton Hotel and threw bottles at police. The station was temporarily closed while authorities restored order using water cannon and tear gas.

Authorities have launched investigations into the incidents and confirmed that numerous suspects have been detained for questioning.

^{Riot police during the national strike in Brussels © BELGA PHOTO MARIUS BURGELMAN}