Fewer attacks on train conductors

Physical and verbal attacks on train conductors are decreasing, La Libre Belgique reports today. A total of 1,178 attacks were recorded last year, compared to 1,230 in 2011. The 2010 figures, however, were slightly better, with 1,084 attacks. The majority (70%) of physical or verbal violence stems from people caught without a valid ticket. The overall decrease in attacks is chiefly due to the increase in the number of security patrols on the busiest routes, including the Charleroi-Brussels-Antwerp and Ghent-Brussels axes. Train conductors also have to attend two-day conflict management classes. Despite these improvements, certain types of attacks are on the rise, such as ‘mild’ violence, 299 cases of which were recorded in 2012 against 261 in 2011.