Knokke-Heist police arrest 7 minors following video evidence

Sarhan Basem
Credit: Junior Verbeeke

Knokke-Heist (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – 7 minors arrested in Damme/Knokke-Heist for assault/extortion, 4 in custody. Authorities focus on youth violence prevention.

The local police in Damme and Knokke-Heist received a video for their investigation. This video helped them find and arrest 7 minors connected to the attack. Out of these, three suspects were allowed to return home. However, 4 others were kept in custody and will appear in juvenile court. 

The case has caused a lot of anger in the community. Many people are worried about social media and peer pressure among young people. They are also concerned about how easily violent acts can be shared online. Authorities are working to make sure justice is served. They are also looking at the larger issues related to this situation.

The juvenile judge will have to decide what happens to them after questioning,

says Griet De Prest of the West Flanders public prosecutor’s office.

The facts are serious. The young people are being brought before the court on suspicion of intentional assault and battery and extortion.

What consequences will minors face for assault and extortion?

Griet De Prest, who works at the West Flanders public prosecutor’s office, stated that the juvenile judge will decide the suspects after questioning them. She emphasized that the situation is serious. The young people are facing charges of intentional assault and battery, as well as extortion. The judge’s decision will determine what consequences the suspects will face for their actions.

The local police in Damme/Knokke-Heist found a video of a fight among young people in Burgemeester Graf Leopold Lippenspark, near the football stadium. The video showed a group of kids attacking another boy. This happened in a public area where many people go. The video spread quickly and made many people upset. Authorities acted fast to find the attackers.

What actions are authorities taking to prevent youth violence?

The local police started an investigation after finding the video. They used it as key evidence. They tried to find the young people involved and spoke to witnesses. Community members are worried about more violence among kids in places meant for fun. Authorities said it is important to act quickly and find ways to stop this behavior. They want to focus on education and community support to keep public spaces safe.

A violent incident occurred near Burgemeester Graf Leopold Lippenspark in Knokke just before Christmas. A teenage boy asked a girl for nude pictures on social media. The girl refused his request. She felt upset and told her friends about it. 

In response, her friends planned to confront the boy. They located him near the football stadium. The group attacked him in a coordinated manner. Some members of the group filmed the incident. They shared the video with others. This footage eventually caught the attention of the authorities.

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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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Sarhan Basem is Brussels Morning's Senior Correspondent to the European Parliament. With a Bachelor's degree in English Literature, Sarhan brings a unique blend of linguistic finesse and analytical prowess to his reporting. Specializing in foreign affairs, human rights, civil liberties, and security issues, he delves deep into the intricacies of global politics to provide insightful commentary and in-depth coverage. Beyond the world of journalism, Sarhan is an avid traveler, exploring new cultures and cuisines, and enjoys unwinding with a good book or indulging in outdoor adventures whenever possible.
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