Eeklo ( Brussels Morning Newspaper ) – DNA evidence in Eeklo prosecuted a 28-year-old male for a robbery that occurred in 2021 and several thefts across construction sites. DNA analysis from recent construction site thefts matched a sample retrieved from the 2021 robbery, which led to his detention.
In 2021, a person pointed a gun at a night shop cashier and took money from the cash register before they ran away. His identity continued to be untraceable until recent months. The Meetjesland police zone saw shipyard thefts, which led investigators to a breakthrough. DNA evidence was gathered at all the crime locations throughout these incidents.
DNA evidence collected from the 2021 robbery showed matching genetic material to the DNA material found at the crime scenes.
After a number of shipyard thefts in our police zone, we arrested a 28-year-old man,
says Emmeline Martens of the Meetjesland police zone.
That is why it is important that we never give up, because even after 4 years something new can suddenly turn up, and we can continue the investigation and if there is a solution, then that is a nice bonus,
says Emmeline Martens.
How Do Crime Rates Differ Across Belgium’s Cities?
Belgium reveals strong disparities in criminal activity between its various municipal divisions as well as between its regional areas. Brussels topped all regional statistics for crime occurrences in 2023 because it registered 13.3 crimes per 100 inhabitants. The region’s crime total surpasses Wallonia and Flanders because it recorded 13.3 offences per 100 residents. Rooftop robbery cases occupy residents in the major city of Brussels because theft and extortion prove to be the most commonly reported offences.
The criminal statistics in Antwerp stand at 20% below those found in the capital city, Brussels. Regionally, Liege and Charleroi show increased crime rates above national averages because both cities maintain high joblessness rates, while industrialised cities Ghent and Bruges demonstrate lower crime rates.
