Brussels authorities have condemned a group of young daredevils who infiltrated two of the city’s iconic skyscrapers, the Iris Tower and Astro Tower, and filmed their dangerous stunts for YouTube.
The 23-minute video, posted by well-known influencer DielsMK on 23 February, has since been taken down, but not before it garnered over 67,000 views in four days. While one of the participants claims the footage is fabricated, security footage suggests otherwise.
DielsMK, who has 287,000 subscribers and is notorious for hoaxes filmed in Brussels, was joined by three other Instagram influencers known for illegal urban climbing.
The footage showed them bypassing security and reaching the rooftops of the buildings without any safety equipment. At the 137-metre-high Iris Tower, they even climbed the spires. The Astro Tower, which stands at 107 metres, was similarly accessed.
Both buildings house important institutions, with the Iris Tower serving as the headquarters of the Brussels Regional Public Service (GOB) and the Astro Tower home to Actiris, the Brussels employment agency. While no vandalism was detected, the GOB strongly condemned the act.
“We take this situation very seriously and strongly condemn these irresponsible actions,” Julie Fiszman, GOB’s Secretary General, told La Libre.
“The video clearly shows that the intruders endangered not only their safety but also that of others to collect views and likes.”
Authorities have since reviewed security measures, with both the GOB and Actiris vowing to strengthen protections against similar incidents. They also announced plans to file formal complaints.
Despite the influencers’ attempts to present the video as fictional, there is strong evidence contradicting their claims.
A disclaimer in the video states that the images are “completely fictitious and were created using artificial intelligence and avatars,” adding that the production team assumes no responsibility for any misinterpretation.
However, security cameras captured the quartet inside the buildings, casting significant doubt on their statements.
One of the daredevils, known as @arthurito_go on Instagram, had already posted a picture of himself atop the Astro Tower on 6 February, further indicating the footage’s authenticity.
This is not the first time the young men have engaged in such risky behaviour. Their social media accounts showcase similar stunts on prominent landmarks, including the dome of the Koekelberg Basilica in Brussels, as well as structures in Paris and New York.
DielsMK himself is already facing legal trouble, with a pending case against him for assault, harassment, and violation of image rights.
As the authorities investigate further, the incident has reignited concerns about security at high-rise buildings in Brussels.
The GOB and Actiris have vowed to identify and address any security vulnerabilities to prevent future breaches, while also ensuring those responsible face legal consequences.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
