Brussels Police Launch Search for Gunmen Following Metro Shooting Incident

In a dramatic morning event, armed men opened fire near Clémenceau metro station, resulting in a swift police response and major transit disruption.

Belgian police are currently on the hunt for armed suspects following a shooting incident early Wednesday outside Clémenceau metro station, situated in the heart of Brussels. CCTV footage aired by local media captured at least two masked men, armed with what appeared to be rifles, at the scene around 06:15 local time (05:15 GMT). Eyewitness reports suggest a brief exchange of gunfire but thankfully, no injuries have been reported.

Sarah Frederickx, the spokesperson for the Brussels police, indicated that the suspected gunmen may have escaped into the metro tunnels, prompting authorities to pursue a small group of individuals, estimated to be two or three. "They may still be armed, which requires a cautious response," she noted. Vigilant commuters witnessed the startling confrontation, which has since been confirmed through verified social media reports depicting the armed assailants.

In the immediate aftermath of the shooting, multiple nearby metro stations were temporarily closed, disrupting service for countless morning commuters. The Clémenceau station and Brussels-Midi, an important Eurostar terminal, were severely affected but have since reopened, with services gradually resuming. To oversee the investigation, a command post has been established at Anderlecht town hall, located west of the city center.

Belgium’s prosecutor's office has confirmed no arrests have been made yet and maintains that there is currently no indication of a terrorist motive underlying this incident. Interior Minister Bernard Quintin, who was present at the command post, emphasized the authorities' commitment to closely monitoring the situation.

Local media reports speculate that the shooting may be tied to ongoing issues with drug trafficking, given the area's historical association with crime and violence. Public sentiment is understandably shaken, with one local resident relaying their distress: "I went outside and wondered what is happening. Is this war? We are scared." The incident serves as a grim reminder of the potential dangers in urban environments, particularly during peak commute hours.

Brussels police urge anyone who witnessed the event or has relevant information to come forward as the investigation continues.