Travel
Fresh travel warning for Britons as European destination has ‘serious’ terror threat
Belgium, known for its vibrant music scene, beautiful castles, picturesque towns and world-class chocolate, waffles, fries and beer, is a popular holiday destination.
But before visiting the European country, Britons should read the UK Government’s latest advice. Holidaymakers have been issued a fresh warning about terrorism, demonstrations and strikes.
Terrorism
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) told Britons: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.”
Holidaymakers were advised to read UK Counter Terrorism Policing’s information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do during a terrorist attack. They should also consult the FCDO’s guidance on how to reduce their risk from terrorism while abroad.
‘Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Belgium’
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The FCDO continued: “Terrorists are likely to try to carry out attacks in Belgium.
“Terrorism attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by foreign nationals such as public transport, national and international transport hubs, music, sporting and cultural events, government buildings and international institutions and places of worship and religious sites.
“You should be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local authorities.
“There have been some high-profile terrorist attacks across Belgium. The main threat is from extremists linked to Daesh (formerly referred to as ISIL). Previous incidents have included fatal attacks against civilians and law enforcement.”
The FCDO shared that on October 16, 2023, two people were killed and one seriously injured in a terrorism-related shooting incident in Brussels.
In 2022, a police officer was killed and another injured in a suspected terrorist incident in Brussels.
The FCDO continued: “The Belgian authorities have successfully disrupted various attack plans, making a number of arrests in recent years.
“The Belgian government has set the national threat level at three ‘Serious’. You can expect to see an increased police presence, and additional safety measures may be in place. Be aware of your surroundings and follow the advice of local authorities.”
Demonstrations and strikes
The FCDO also provided updated information on demonstrations and strikes in Belgium.
Britons were warned: “Demonstrations and strikes often take place in major cities, particularly in transport hubs and around the Schuman area (EU quarter) in Brussels.
“Most demonstrations are peaceful, but there is a risk of unrest or violence. There has also been violence following major sporting fixtures.
“Demonstrations by farmers can block major roads and delay traffic. Demonstrations in the Schuman area can affect access to the British Embassy and the British Consulate General.
“Strike action is an ongoing issue that can cause severe travel disruption across the country and affect international travel.
“Strike action may be announced at short notice and planned strike action may be extended at short notice. Strikes can coincide with demonstrations and protests.
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‘Demonstrations and strikes often take place in major cities’
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“For regular updates on any disruption, check local news and follow advice given by your travel provider.
“If you are in areas where large gatherings are taking place, remain vigilant and move away quickly if there are signs of disorder. Avoid protests, expect delays on some major roads and follow the advice of the authorities.”
For information on travel in Belgium, holidaymakers can visit Belgian Railways (train and metro travel); Brussels, Walloon and Flemish (regional public transport) and HERE map.
For international travel, they can visit the official websites of Brussels Airport Zaventem, Charleroi Airport and Antwerp Airport.
The FCDO continued: “In the event of a security incident or any emergency, or if police carry out security operations at short notice, follow the instructions of the Belgian authorities.
“You can find information on the Belgian Crisis Centre website, follow the Crisis Centre accounts on Twitter or Facebook to follow official information in the event of a major national incident, sign up to BE-Alert to receive emergency alerts on SMS and look for the official communication and social media channels of local police for the area you are in.”
This comes as holidaymakers were recently issued a Belgium travel warning amid changes in border control.
In other European travel news, Britons in a particular destination have been warned that they risk having their drinks spiked.
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