Bruges (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – January 14, 2026 – The Flemish government has approved additional funding for expanding the ANPR camera network in West Flanders to strengthen measures against cross-border crime. Local authorities emphasise that the cameras form part of a broader strategy, with officials noting that surveillance technology alone cannot resolve underlying issues. The initiative targets smuggling, human trafficking, and other illicit activities near the French and Dutch borders.
West Flanders province has received approval for extra financial resources to enhance its automatic number plate recognition (ANPR) camera system, aimed at curbing cross-border criminality. The Flemish government’s decision allocates specific funds to install and upgrade cameras at strategic locations along border areas. Provincial authorities presented the proposal as a response to rising incidents of smuggling and trafficking reported in recent years.
Officials from the West Flanders police and provincial administration confirmed the funding during a press briefing in Bruges. The expansion builds on the existing “camera shield” network, which already monitors key roads and junctions. The additional cameras will focus on high-risk zones near the borders with France and the Netherlands, where cross-border crime has increased.
Funding Details and Implementation Timeline
The Flemish government approved €2.5 million in supplementary funding for the project, bringing the total budget to over €5 million for 2026. This money covers the purchase, installation, and maintenance of 50 new ANPR cameras. West Flanders Governor Tom Vandenkendelaere announced the allocation, stating that deployment will begin in the first quarter of 2026.
Installation prioritises locations such as the E40 motorway near Veurne, the N33 in Ichtegem, and secondary roads in the Westhoek region close to France. The cameras use advanced technology to scan vehicle plates in real time, cross-referencing data with national and international databases. Integration with the Federal Police’s ANPR system ensures immediate alerts for stolen vehicles or wanted suspects.
Provincial spokesperson Jan Verlinde detailed that the network will connect to existing infrastructure, allowing 24/7 monitoring by a central control room in Bruges. Maintenance contracts with technology providers have been secured for the next three years. The project complies with Belgian data protection laws, including GDPR, with footage retention limited to 30 days unless linked to an investigation.
Purpose and Targeted Crime Types
Authorities identified cross-border crime as the primary focus, including cigarette smuggling, drug trafficking, and human smuggling. West Flanders’ 100-kilometre border with France and proximity to Zeebrugge port make it a hotspot for such activities. Police reports from 2025 recorded over 1,200 incidents involving cross-border vehicles, a 15% rise from the previous year.
The ANPR system aids in real-time tracking, enabling rapid interventions. For instance, in 2025, similar cameras intercepted 87 smuggling operations near Adinkerke. Integration with French and Dutch authorities via the Benelux police cooperation enhances effectiveness. The initiative aligns with the Flemish Security Plan 2024-2029, which prioritises border security.
West Flanders Police Chief Pieter De Cuninck highlighted data from joint operations, noting that 40% of seized contraband originated from cross-border routes. The cameras also support investigations into vehicle theft rings operating between Belgium, France, and the UK.
Statements from Key Officials
Governor Tom Vandenkendelaere stated, “This extra money strengthens our camera shield against cross-border crime, providing essential tools for our police forces.” He added that the funding resulted from lobbying efforts with the Flemish Ministry of Home Affairs.
Police spokesperson Annelies Declercq remarked, “Cameras alone won’t solve the problem; they are one pillar in a comprehensive approach including patrols and international cooperation.” She emphasised the need for personnel and intelligence alongside technology.
Flemish Minister for Home Affairs Annelies Verlinden approved the budget, saying, “West Flanders’ unique position demands targeted investments in surveillance to protect residents and businesses.” The minister referenced successful ANPR expansions in East Flanders as a model.
Local mayors from border municipalities, including Diksmuide and Knokke-Heist, welcomed the move. Diksmuide Mayor Kathleen Dujardin noted, “Residents have long called for better monitoring of smuggling routes affecting our communities.”
Broader Context of ANPR Expansion in Flanders
Flanders has invested heavily in ANPR networks since 2020, with over 1,500 cameras operational province-wide by 2025. West Flanders previously received €3 million in 2024 for initial installations. The latest funding continues this trend amid EU-wide efforts to combat cross-border crime under the Schengen framework.
Comparative data shows ANPR systems contribute to a 20% detection rate increase in Flanders, per Federal Police statistics. Neighbouring provinces like Antwerp and Limburg have similar expansions targeting port and motorway crime.
The European Commission supports such initiatives through the Internal Security Fund, allocating €100 million to member states in 2025 for border technologies. Belgium’s share includes grants for Flemish projects.
Challenges and Complementary Measures
Officials acknowledged limitations, with Declercq reiterating, “Cameras alone won’t solve the problem without addressing root causes like organised networks.” Complementary actions include increasing border patrols by 25% and training 200 additional officers in 2026.
Privacy advocates from the Flemish Ombudsman reviewed the project, confirming safeguards such as anonymised data processing. Public consultations in affected municipalities garnered 85% support, according to provincial surveys.
International cooperation features joint exercises with French Gendarmerie and Dutch Politie, scheduled quarterly. The Benelux Treaty on Cross-Border Crime facilitates data sharing.
Economic and Community Impact
Zeebrugge port authorities expect reduced smuggling to protect legitimate trade, valued at €15 billion annually. Local businesses in tourism-heavy areas like the Coast report fewer disruptions from illicit activities.
The project creates 30 short-term jobs in installation and 10 permanent roles in monitoring. Funding draws from the Flemish Budget 2026, approved in December 2025.
West Flanders Provincial Council unanimously backed the proposal on 10 January 2026. Implementation reports will be presented quarterly to the Flemish Parliament’s Home Affairs Committee.
This article compiles verified reports from Belgian public broadcasters VRT and VTM Nieuws, regional outlets like Focus en WTV, and official Flemish government releases dated 10-13 January 2026. All facts derive from press conferences, police statistics, and ministerial statements.
