Shooting at a Soccer Match in Brussels Leaves Two Swedish People Dead
Shooter Shouted 'Allahu Akbar' Before Opening Fire
Overt Operator
October 17, 2023
Belgian authorities have launched a massive manhunt following a terror attack in Brussels that left two Swedish individuals dead.
The incident occurred just three miles away from the King Baudouin Stadium, where Belgium's Euro 2024 qualifier against Sweden was abruptly abandoned at halftime on Monday night.
The shooting, which took place shortly after 7 pm local time, caused panic among the fans who were kept inside the stadium while armed officers searched for the suspected shooter. As of now, the perpetrator remains at large.
In a video shared on social media, a man claiming responsibility for the attack identified himself as a member of Islamic State (IS) and a "fighter for Allah." He alleged that the act of violence was carried out as revenge “in the name of Muslims.” Witnesses reported hearing the shooter shout "Allahu Akbar" (God is great) before opening fire.
Unverified footage of the incident showed a gunman wearing a fluorescent orange jacket and a white helmet chasing a man into a building before shooting him. Belgian authorities have identified the suspect and are actively pursuing him.
Belgium's interior minister, Annelies Verlinden, assured the public that the suspect is being actively tracked down. In response to the attack, the terror alert level in Brussels was raised to its highest level, while the rest of Belgium was placed on the second-highest alert level.
Brussels, a city with a painful history of terrorism, now finds itself on edge. The shooting has heightened concerns among residents and authorities alike. The search for the gunman has intensified, and security measures have been bolstered throughout the city.
Belgium's Prime Minister, Alexander De Croo, condemned the attack, stating that such acts of violence would not weaken the nation's resolve against terrorism. He urged the public to remain vigilant and to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
The international community has expressed solidarity with Belgium, offering support in the pursuit of justice and the prevention of further attacks.
European leaders have emphasized the importance of standing united against terrorism and extremism.
As the manhunt continues, the focus remains on ensuring the safety of the public and bringing the perpetrator to justice. Authorities are urging anyone with information about the attack or the suspect to come forward.