An early morning explosion disturbed residents on Houthulststraat in Antwerp’s Merksem district around 5:30 a.m. on Tuesday, according to local police. The blast caused minor damage to a garage attached to a home, but fortunately, no injuries were reported.
Police officers were quickly dispatched to the scene, establishing a safety perimeter around the affected property. The immediate surroundings were searched extensively, though initial investigations did not yield any direct leads or suspects.
Specialized units from the federal judicial police and the bomb disposal service, Dovo, were called in to examine the site. Their role included analyzing debris and determining whether any explosive devices or materials were used. Forensic experts also began collecting evidence to understand the scale and source of the detonation.
Authorities have temporarily restricted access to parts of Houthulststraat as a precautionary measure. A safety zone has been maintained to protect nearby residents while technical assessments continue.
Police confirmed that they are reviewing security camera footage from surrounding homes and businesses to trace any suspicious movements before the incident occurred.
Although the cause of the explosion remains undetermined, investigators have not ruled out a possible link to organized crime or drug-related activity. In recent years, Antwerp has experienced several small-scale explosions, many connected to turf wars within the city’s drug trade.
However, Antwerp police spokespersons urged the public not to draw premature conclusions. “At this stage, we cannot confirm any criminal motive. The investigation is ongoing, and all possible leads are being examined,” a police representative said.
Residents living nearby reported hearing a loud bang early in the morning, followed by the sound of emergency vehicles. “It was frightening — the whole street woke up. We thought it was another one of those drug explosions,” one neighbor told local media.
By mid-morning, investigators had completed their initial sweep of the area, allowing residents to return to their daily routines. Police patrols have been reinforced in Merksem as a precaution, and additional surveillance measures may be implemented in the coming days.
The Antwerp Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed that the investigation is being handled with high priority. Authorities continue to appeal for witnesses or anyone with relevant footage to come forward to assist in the inquiry.
While Tuesday’s blast caused limited physical damage, it has reignited local concerns about public safety and the ongoing threat of explosive incidents in the city’s residential neighborhoods.
As investigators work to uncover the cause and motive behind the Merksem explosion, residents are once again reminded of the importance of vigilance and cooperation with law enforcement to maintain safety across Antwerp’s communities.
