Police exercise simulates hostage situation in Brussels metro

Emergency services staged a large-scale simulation exercise in Brussels over the weekend, recreating a hostage situation in the metro to test their response to a potential terror attack.

The drill, described as highly realistic, involved police, emergency responders and local authorities, with scenes unfolding both underground at Stockel metro station and in nearby public areas.

Authorities said the goal was to assess how well different services can coordinate during a crisis.

“With this exercise, we want to test our state of preparedness under realistic conditions and further refine our collaboration with all partners,” a spokesperson for the Montgomery police zone said.

The simulation included elements such as explosions, gunfire and evacuation procedures, designed to mirror the chaos of a genuine emergency.

Local officials emphasised that such exercises are necessary given ongoing security concerns.

“We are not immune to any kind of attack or other type of aggression,” said Woluwe-Saint-Pierre mayor Benoît Cerexhe.

“We must prepare for it, show that we are taking matters into our own hands, that we are training, and that we have effective law enforcement.”

Belgium remains on alert following the 10-year anniversary of the Brussels attacks, and authorities regularly organise drills to improve response times and coordination.

Participants acting as victims described the experience as intense and immersive.

“It’s very shocking. There are a lot of noises, bombs, footsteps,” said Anais, one of the volunteers.

“I’m supposed to be dead, so my eyes are closed. I have no idea what’s going on around me, but it’s quite impressive.”

The exercise aimed not only to test technical readiness but also to prepare responders for the psychological pressure of such situations.

By rehearsing worst-case scenarios, authorities hope to ensure a faster, more coordinated response should a real attack occur.