Pepper spray incident disrupts 6,000 attendees at Extrema Outdoor event

Simona Mazzeo
Credit: Facebook/Extrema Outdoor Belgium

Hasselt (Brussels Morning Newspaper): At the Extrema Outdoor event, approximately 6,000 attendees faced chaos when someone used pepper spray, causing evacuations. Spokesperson Lomme Valkeneers confirmed that first aid was provided. Increased security will be present for the upcoming weekend, and attendees are urged to report stolen items to the police.

The winter edition of Extrema Outdoor had about 6,000 visitors, but two incidents around midnight caused problems. A spokesperson, Lomme Valkeneers, said someone used pepper spray to help with thefts, which happens at big events. The spray made many people cough and have trouble breathing. This caused the crowded dance floor to empty quickly as people looked for safe spots like rest areas and toilets. The party had to pause for a while, and the venue needed to be aired out for safety.

What actions did organisers take after the pepper spray incident at Hasselt’s Extrema outdoor event?

The event organisers quickly responded to the situation by posting a message on Facebook. They urged anyone feeling irritated or having trouble breathing to visit the first aid stations available at the event. This helped direct those affected to the assistance they needed while the venue was cleared of irritants. Although the incidents affected the night, the organisers’ swift action prioritized the health and safety of the visitors. 

Police in Limburg arrested a few people after a fight at an event. One person was taken in, and the organisers, who lost money, plan to take legal action. Lomme Valkeneers said they helped those who needed it and got them to first aid. Some people used pepper spray and stole items like chains and phones during the chaos. The party will continue this weekend at the Trixxo Arena, and more security will be present to keep everyone safe. They also want anyone who had something stolen to report it to the police.

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Brussels Morning is a daily online newspaper based in Belgium. BM publishes unique and independent coverage on international and European affairs. With a Europe-wide perspective, BM covers policies and politics of the EU, significant Member State developments, and looks at the international agenda with a European perspective.
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Simona Mazzeo is a journalist and legal professional with a strong focus on European affairs, justice, and social advocacy. A law graduate and practicing lawyer based in Agropoli, she has built a versatile career that bridges journalism, law, and community service. Simona serves as a delegated councilor for the Equal Opportunities Committee of the Bar Association of Vallo della Lucania, where she promotes fairness and equal representation within the legal system. She is also qualified for registration in the list of Special Curators of minors in civil and criminal matters at the Court of Vallo della Lucania, ensuring that the rights of vulnerable children are safeguarded throughout legal proceedings. In addition to her legal practice, Simona is a founding member of the Free Lawyer Movement, a non-profit organization providing legal aid to those unable to afford representation. As a journalist, she contributes insightful analyses and reports on European institutions, Italian affairs, and pressing social issues, combining her legal expertise with a passion for truth and justice. Through her work in both law and media, Simona Mazzeo continues to advocate for equality, transparency, and access to justice for all.
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