Borgerhout explosion damages home near district house

Sarhan Basem
Credit: Basab Barua, VRT NWS

Borgerhout (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – An early morning explosion on June 16, 2025, on Van Daelstraat in Borgerhout damaged a house using fireworks; no injuries. Linked to a similar attack in Deurne. Police suspect drug-related crime.

According to VRT News, an explosion occurred in Antwerp‘s Borgerhout borough, at Van Daelstraat near the local district house, shortly after midnight (in the morning) on June 16, 2025. Someone placed fireworks on top of a house window and lit them, allowing the glass to do damage and even some damage potential with the explosion. No one was injured.

Police and bomb experts came fast, closed off the area, and started looking into what happened. People in the neighbourhood were worried, especially since it was near a government building. Police are checking why this happened. No one has been arrested yet.

What caused the fireworks explosion in Borgerhout?

Authorities believe the explosion was deliberate and are trying to discover everything possible to learn what happened. They are trying to determine if there are ties to the drug trade,  and noted that organised crime groups have used bombings to instil fear or make statements in the past.

The officers are investigating whether the residence or those residing in the residence have an established link to either group. The officers are reviewing security video, conducting interviews, and looking at other explosions to discover who committed the offence.

Following the Borgerhout incident, another explosion happened a day earlier in Deurne, on Confortalei. There were also fireworks there to damage the front door. There was significant structural damage, but no injuries. Police are looking into whether the 2 explosions are related, but right now are treating them separately.

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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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