Bilzen (Brussels Morning Newspaper): In September 2024, Belgian authorities decided not to charge five suspects linked to a 2019 arson at a planned asylum center in Bilzen, frustrating local lawyer Mark Huygen. This incident reignited debates on immigration and justice in Belgium.
A fire destroyed an empty building in Bilzen, Belgium, on the night of November 10 to 11, 2019. The building was supposed to become a center for asylum seekers, which made the fire an important topic about immigration. Authorities quickly suspected arson and identified five suspects from a nearby town. They mentioned that this incident raised concerns about xenophobia and how the community views asylum projects in Belgium.
What does the dismissal of arson charges in Bilzen say about justice and immigration?
In September 2024, nearly five years after the fire in Bilzen, Belgium, the public prosecutor’s office asked not to charge the five suspects, saying there wasn’t enough evidence. The council chamber agreed and dismissed the case, which left many people unhappy as they wanted justice for the fire incident. This decision has led to renewed discussions about justice and community reactions to migration in Belgium.
Mark Huygen, the city’s lawyer, is upset about the decision. He said, “It’s frustrating that after five years, the investigation hasn’t led to anything. We will discuss if we can appeal.” If they decide not to appeal, the investigation will end, and no one will be charged unless new evidence comes up.
