Title: Belgian Police Shoot and Kill Suspected Terrorist Accused of Killing Swedish Soccer Fans in Brussels
Belgian authorities have announced that the suspected terrorist responsible for the fatal shooting of two Swedish soccer fans in Brussels has been shot and killed after a nationwide manhunt. The 45-year-old Tunisian suspect was found in a cafe in the Schaerbeek neighborhood, not far from where the shooting occurred.
During the apprehension, the suspect was struck in the chest and later pronounced dead at the hospital. Authorities have also recovered the weapon used in the attack at the scene. Belgium’s Interior Minister has confirmed that the deceased suspect was indeed the perpetrator of the terrorist attack.
Investigations are still ongoing, and authorities are checking fingerprints to officially verify the suspect’s identity. Additionally, the Interior Minister has expressed concerns about the possibility of the suspect having accomplices.
The tragic shooting left two Swedish nationals dead and another injured. The suspect fled the scene immediately after the incident, prompting a massive manhunt and the elevation of the terror alert level. More than 35,000 soccer fans were locked down in the national stadium for several hours due to the heightened security concerns, as the suspect was still at large.
In a video posted on social media, the suspect identified himself as Abdesalem Lassoued and claimed to be a member of the Islamic State. He alleged that the shooting was in retaliation for the murder of a 6-year-old Muslim boy in Illinois. The accused murderer of the child has since been arrested and charged with hate crimes.
Belgium’s Prime Minister has firmly condemned the attack, describing it as an act of cowardice. He emphasized the importance of unity in the face of terrorism and encouraged the public to stay strong and resolute.
This tragic incident occurred near the King Baudouin Stadium during a Euro 2024 qualifying soccer match between Belgium and Sweden. The match had to be abandoned following the shooting, causing disappointment among thousands of soccer fans.
The suspected gunman had sought asylum in Belgium in 2019 and was already known to authorities as a suspected human trafficker. Belgium has unfortunately experienced several Islamist attacks in recent years, including the infamous 2016 attack on Brussels airport and the city’s commuter rail.
As the investigation continues, Belgian authorities and law enforcement agencies remain committed to ensuring the safety and security of the country’s citizens.
