'Proven link to violence': Schaerbeek bans sale of alcohol in North District

The mayor of Schaerbeek has issued a police order banning the sale of alcohol in the North Quarter between 22.00 and 6.00 until at least October, according to the office of mayor Cécile Jodogne.

“There is a proven causal link between violent acts and the consumption of alcoholic beverages, which demonstrates the need to put in place a comprehensive system to restrict the consumption of alcohol in public places,” the municipality said.

Such a measure is possible under 2024 legislation from Brussels minister president Rudi Vervoort that aims to tackle crime linked to drug trafficking.

Restaurants, cafes and delivery services are exempt from the order.

The North Quarter has been designated a hotspot for crime by the region’s security council.