A Colruyt supermarket located at Gentplaats, Antwerp, was the target of yet another attack during the night from Tuesday to Wednesday, reigniting public concerns about safety and security. This latest incident follows another attack just weeks earlier when firebombs were thrown inside the store.
According to Antwerp police, just before 3 AM on Christmas Eve, explosions were reported, followed by flames erupting from the supermarket. "There was an attack on this supermarket," stated a police spokesperson who arrived at the scene. Officials noted significant damage to the store’s glass entrance door, prompting the immediate arrival of forensic experts and the bomb disposal service SEDEE to investigate.
The fire engulfed the supermarket, causing extensive damage. Local residents reported hearing several loud bangs, triggering panic among those nearby. “The branch is the same one where 3 fire bombs were thrown at the end of November,” Wouter Bruyns of Antwerp police explained. Despite the chaos, miraculously, no injuries were reported from either incident.
During the previous attack at the end of November, just before the store’s closing time, a masked individual had thrown three firebombs near the checkout area. Eyewitnesses described the scene as alarming, with flames and smoke quickly filling the store. Fortunately, store employees had already closed at the time, preventing any potential casualties.
The series of attacks has left residents feeling uneasy. Many express frustration over the lack of security measures to prevent such occurrences. Police are currently working tirelessly to track down the culprits responsible for both attacks, but as of yet, no arrests have been made.
Authorities continue to assure the community of their commitment to enhancing security within the area. The army bomb squad and local forensic technicians are currently conducting thorough investigations, searching for clues to deter future incidents. The need for vigilance has never been greater, as these attacks raise questions about the overall safety of public spaces and shopping environments.
Residents and community leaders alike are calling for stronger measures to protect local businesses and their patrons. Suggestions have included increasing police presence around the store, implementing surveillance systems, and fostering community engagement to report suspicious activity.
The recent incidents demonstrate the troubling trend of violence against public establishments, leaving not just physical destruction but also emotional scars among the community members. People’s trust and sense of safety are clearly at stake.
Both attacks have shone a light on the necessity for heightened awareness and improved response strategies to prevent such events from repeating. Local authorities are intensifying their efforts to establish communication with the public, urging them to report any suspicious behavior as they work to restore peace of mind among residents.
These attacks on the Colruyt supermarket not only reflect the growing concerns about public security but also highlight the resilience of the community. Residents are reminded to look out for each other and keep their neighborhood safe.
