Fatal confrontation during a house search in Lodelinsart claims the life of a special forces officer; the perpetrator also dies later.
On Monday, A house examination in Lodelinsart (Charleroi) became violent, resulting in the demise of one police officer. The perpetrator died later in the day. A 36-year-old special forces person, part of the Directorate of Special Units (DSU), died during a house search that evolved into a shoot-out on Rue de l’Étang in Lodelinsart, Charleroi. The news was verified by Charleroi Public Prosecutor Vincent Fiasse during a press conference at noon.
“The DSU team broke into the home at around 06:30, they instantly identified themselves as police officers,” Fiasse reported. “The team first found a woman, but almost instantly after they discovered a person hidden after a door, who was armed and shot at the agents.” Several police officers were shot. The crew retreated and took measures to follow the injured officers. The suspect was still behind the door, and the team called for backup.
“The reinforcement groups penetrated the house round the back and uncovered that the suspect had been wounded. He was taken to hospital and has since died,” Fiasse stated. An investigation has also been undertaken.
The house search was called by an investigating judge of the Charleroi Public Prosecutor’s office as the domain of a wider investigation into a criminal association dealing in arms, drugs and stolen vehicles.
Another official aged 33 is reportedly fighting for his life. A third officer 34 also upheld light injuries. “This is a dark day for the Federal Police but especially for the Special Units teams,” stated Eric Snoeck Commissioner-General ad interim of the Federal Police.
“Like every morning, our people got up early this morning. One of them is not returning home, another is battling for his life and another still has been wounded. We are thinking of his family, his associates, and those present for whom this must have been traumatic.”
During the press conference, Home Affairs Ministers Annelies Verlinden and Justice Minister Paul Van Tigchelt conveyed their condolences to the victims and their loved ones. “We were shocked to hear of the demise of our colleague this morning. We are going to do everything we can to help the victim’s colleagues,” Verlinden stated. She assured that assistance was delivered to the officers who were present on Monday morning.
Prime Minister Alexander De Croo also presented his condolences on social media. “My thoughts are with the family and friends of the police officer who was killed in Lodelinsart. And those who are between life and death. The job of our police forces, in the service of the population, deserves admiration. Targeting them is despicable and will never go unpunished.”
The City of Brussels/Ixelles police zone also presented its condolences on social media to the family of the person who died. “We join the suffering of the special units following the death of a colleague on duty in Lodelinsart. The opinions of our police force are also with the seriously injured colleagues,” they stated.
