Brussels, Belgium — Two men were swiftly apprehended early Friday morning following a burglary at a restaurant on Place Sainte-Catherine, Brussels. The arrests occurred after local police were alerted to the suspects’ suspicious behavior, particularly their possession of a safe.
The suspects, identified as two males in their mid-thirties, were spotted by an anti-aggression patrol from the Brussels-Capital/Ixelles police zone around 6 a.m. on Rue du Vieux Marché aux Grains. One of the men was seen pushing a safe on a bicycle, while the other provided assistance.
The police, acting on a tip-off about the burglary, immediately intervened and conducted a search of the suspects.
In addition to the safe, which was believed to have been stolen from the Sainte-Catherine restaurant, officers found several electronic items among their belongings. These included a computer and four tablets, all of which were identified as being used for restaurant orders.
Initial investigations suggest that the suspects gained entry to the restaurant through forced means.
The burglary appears to have taken place during the night when the restaurant was closed. The stolen items, including the safe and electronic devices, were later recovered by the police.
Following their arrest, the men were taken into custody and subjected to questioning. They were subsequently issued a summons to appear before a judge in October.
The charges against them include burglary and possession of stolen property. The police are continuing their investigation to determine if the suspects are linked to other recent thefts in the area.
The swift response by the Brussels-Capital/Ixelles anti-aggression patrol was crucial in apprehending the suspects before they could flee the scene. Authorities have commended the vigilance of the patrol and the local community’s role in reporting suspicious activities.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about crime in Brussels, particularly in the bustling area around Place Sainte-Catherine, known for its vibrant dining and nightlife scene.
Local business owners and residents have expressed relief at the rapid resolution of the case, though they remain cautious about security.
As the legal process moves forward, the restaurant’s management is cooperating with the authorities and taking steps to assess the full extent of the damage and loss.
The incident has sparked renewed discussions about the need for enhanced security measures and increased police presence in popular commercial districts.
For now, the focus remains on the judicial proceedings and the efforts of the Brussels-Capital/Ixelles police zone to address crime and maintain safety in the city.
