Ghent, Belgium — The activist group known as ‘Tyre Extinguishers’ has once again taken to the streets of Ghent, deflating the tires of multiple SUVs between Thursday night and early Friday morning.
This latest incident has sparked concern among local residents and car owners as the group continues its campaign against the environmental and social impact of large vehicles.
Local police have confirmed receiving several calls about deflated tires throughout the night, though the exact number of affected vehicles remains undetermined.
This incident marks the first significant action by the Tyre Extinguishers in Ghent since the city implemented new local administrative sanctions (SACs) in late May.
These sanctions penalize anyone who deflates car tires without the owner’s permission, classifying the act as vandalism.
“We have deflated one or more of your tires. You may be angry, but don’t take it personally. It’s not you, it’s your car,” read a letter left by the Tyre Extinguishers on the windshields of the targeted vehicles.
The group has made it clear that their actions are intended to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of cars on the environment and society.
This recent wave of tire deflations is part of a broader pattern of similar actions by Tyre Extinguishers. In the past year, they have conducted similar operations in April and October 2023, as well as February, March, and April 2024.
The group’s consistent efforts underscore their commitment to their cause despite the increasing legal repercussions.
The introduction of SACs in May was a direct response to the growing activities of the Tyre Extinguishers and similar groups.
These sanctions are designed to deter acts of vandalism by imposing fines and other penalties on offenders. However, it remains to be seen whether these measures will effectively curb the group’s activities or merely push them to adopt different tactics.
Car owners in Ghent have expressed mixed reactions to the Tyre Extinguishers’ actions. While some acknowledge the group’s environmental concerns, many are frustrated by the inconvenience and potential danger posed by unexpectedly finding their tires deflated.
“I understand the message they’re trying to send, but this is not the right way to do it. It’s dangerous and irresponsible,” said one affected SUV owner who wished to remain anonymous.
On the other hand, some residents have shown support for the group’s cause, if not their methods. “We need to have a serious conversation about the impact of cars on our environment, and sometimes drastic measures are needed to get people’s attention,” commented another local resident.
The Tyre Extinguishers’ actions have undoubtedly succeeded in drawing attention to their cause, sparking debate about the role of personal vehicles in contributing to climate change and urban congestion. However, the long-term effectiveness of their methods remains a contentious issue.
As the authorities continue to investigate the recent tire deflations, it is clear that the conversation about sustainable transportation and environmental responsibility is far from over. The Tyre Extinguishers have vowed to continue their campaign, indicating that further actions may be on the horizon.
For now, SUV owners in Ghent are left to grapple with the immediate aftermath of the group’s latest protest, while the wider community reflects on the broader implications of the ongoing clash between environmental activism and urban living.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
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