Belgium allocates nearly $30 million to expand police CCTV network

13:30

By: Sahili Aya

Belgium allocates nearly $30 million to expand police CCTV network

Belgium’s federal government has approved nearly $30 million in funding to expand and modernize police CCTV networks nationwide, with a strong focus on Brussels and Antwerp. The move comes as authorities seek to strengthen the fight against rising drug-related crime and improve overall public security.

Interior Minister Bernard Quintin said the investment will enhance the capacity of law enforcement agencies to prevent, monitor, and investigate criminal activity. According to him, surveillance cameras have become an essential operational tool, helping police document incidents linked to insecurity and gather valuable evidence in both minor and serious cases.

Under the allocation plan, Brussels and Antwerp will each receive about $8.8 million, together accounting for more than half of the total budget. Other major cities will also benefit, with Ghent set to receive around $1.2 million, while Liège, Namur, Charleroi, and Mons will each be allocated similar amounts.

The remaining funds will be distributed among other police zones across the country, based on the size and needs of their respective forces. Authorities say this approach aims to ensure balanced coverage and improved coordination nationwide.

Newly installed cameras will be integrated into Belgium’s existing Automatic Number Plate Recognition system, allowing police zones to share data more efficiently. In parallel, the federal government is developing a new analytical tool designed to speed up the identification of wanted vehicles.

Officials noted that the final budget exceeds initial plans by nearly $6 million, underlining the government’s determination to reinforce security infrastructure in response to evolving criminal threats.