Lokeren (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Lokeren police are investigating fireworks damage at the Hoedhaar site. Opposition N-VA will raise security at the next council meeting. Mayor Filip Anthuenis confirmed the ongoing investigation.
As VRT News reported, Lokeren police are investigating a fireworks incident at the Hoedhaar site. Youths set off fireworks in several locations, and at least 1 house was damaged. The city confirmed the property was hit by fireworks fired at it. Police are working to find those responsible. Residents are asked to stay alert and report any illegal use of fireworks.
What measures are Lokeren authorities taking after the Hoedhaar fireworks attacks?
The case has drawn the attention of local politicians. Opposition party N-VA said several houses were reportedly targeted and will submit an agenda item at the next city council meeting. The party wants to discuss the security situation at the Hoedhaar site and consider measures to prevent similar incidents.
The opposition party N-VA in Lokeren said it had previously proposed a security plan for the area, but claimed that Mayor Filip Anthuenis of the Local Liberal party did not respond to their suggestions. N-VA described the attacks on several homes as serious and alarming. Mayor Anthuenis confirmed that police are conducting a full investigation.
This is not the first time that similar events have taken place in Lokeren. In December 2022, young people set off fireworks near multiple homes, causing damage to the property and resulting in a police investigation. Neighbourhood residents had filed complaints, which resulted in city council debates regarding the need for enhanced neighbourhood security measures.
Opposition party members, including N‑VA, proposed safety plans and requested the implementation of preventative measures to prevent further incidents while the police investigated those responsible for the fireworks event.
