Belgiumis facing an unprecedented wave of drug-related violence, driven by the influx and use of cocaine. The crisis is most visible in Brussels, where turf wars and street-level drug deals have led to a surge in shootings and public fear.

Police officers like Stephan report that drug use now spans across all levels of society, not just among traditional addicts, and that violent retaliation is common — even for acts as minor as filming a dealer.

Criminologists have warned that the situation extends beyond Belgium and requires coordinated action across Europe. Without that, the violence is likely to persist, regardless of local enforcement efforts.

(This video summary was created using AI. A journalist edited it before publication.) 

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