Antwerp, Belgium — Activists from the ‘Tyre Extinguishers‘ group have once again targeted several Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) in Antwerp, this time focusing on vehicles in the Zurenborg and Groen Kwartier districts.
On Friday, the owners of at least 46 SUVs and other large vehicles were greeted with a surprise when they discovered their tyres deflated and a note left behind explaining the group’s actions.
The ‘Tyre Extinguishers,’ known for their controversial methods, have made it their mission to highlight the environmental and social impacts of large vehicles in urban areas.
The group’s recent actions in Antwerp reflect their ongoing campaign against what they describe as “gas guzzlers” — vehicles that they argue contribute to pollution, traffic safety issues, and the overuse of street space.
In a note left on the affected vehicles, the activists explained their motivations: “We have deflated one or more of your tyres. You may be angry but don’t take it personally. It’s not you, it’s your car.”
The letter further elaborates that large vehicles have numerous negative consequences for people in smaller cars, pedestrians, and cyclists.
Traffic safety institute Vias has backed the activists’ claims, noting that larger vehicles pose a greater risk to other road users.
They also highlight that these vehicles are typically more polluting than smaller cars and occupy more space on the roads.
By deflating tyres, the ‘Tyre Extinguishers’ hope to draw public attention to these issues and encourage a shift towards more sustainable transportation choices.
The Antwerp police have launched an investigation into the incident. On Friday morning, authorities took stock of the affected vehicles and are calling on vehicle owners to report the vandalism.
Police are also reviewing surveillance footage to identify potential suspects and plan to pursue legal action against those responsible.
Despite the clear intent behind the activists’ actions, the legal ramifications remain complex. The group’s strategy of deflating tyres, rather than causing more direct damage, has created a grey area in the law.
Earlier this year, the Ghent Public Prosecutor’s Office ruled that activists could not be prosecuted for deflating tyres, citing a lack of direct damage to property.
However, legal experts point out that Article 521 of the Belgian Criminal Code, which covers rendering a vehicle unusable with intent to harm, could still apply.
This article prescribes penalties ranging from 15 days to three years in prison and fines between €50 and €500.
The ‘Tyre Extinguishers’ have conducted similar campaigns in Antwerp in the past, including actions in March and October of last year, and earlier this year in February, March, April, and June.
Their persistent efforts underscore their commitment to raising awareness about the impacts of large vehicles.
In contrast to the activists’ approach, some cities are exploring legal and regulatory measures to address the presence of large vehicles.
In Paris, a new regulation was passed earlier this year increasing parking fees for SUVs and other heavy vehicles by three times.
Brussels is also considering a study to assess potential strategies for managing the growing number of such vehicles in the city.
The ongoing debate over large vehicles in urban areas reflects a broader discussion about environmental responsibility and public safety.
While activists continue to use direct action to make their point, cities are grappling with how best to balance the needs of all road users and address the environmental concerns associated with heavy, polluting vehicles.
As Antwerp residents face the aftermath of the latest tyre deflation campaign, the conversation around the impact of SUVs and other large vehicles is likely to continue, prompting both legal and policy responses to address these issues.
