Beveren School Fight: Police Investigate Youth Violence & Increased Patrols

Police Investigate Brawl Near School Entrance in Beveren; “Tensions Between Youths” Reported

Beveren, Belgium – Police have launched an investigation following a reported fight near the entrance of Sint-Maarten school in Beveren. The incident, captured in a video circulating online, comes amid what officials describe as a week of escalating tensions between young people in the area. The Politiezone Scheldewaas is leading the inquiry, seeking to determine the circumstances surrounding the altercation and prevent further incidents.

What is Confirmed and What Remains Unclear

Authorities have confirmed that an investigation is underway regarding a physical altercation that took place outside Sint-Maarten school. Reports indicate the incident involved a group of youths, and that tensions had been building in the week leading up to the fight. Still, specific details regarding the number of individuals involved, the cause of the conflict, and any potential injuries have not been released. It remains unclear whether any arrests have been made at this time. The police have increased their presence in the area as a preventative measure, according to reports.

The Politiezone Scheldewaas: A Multi-Municipal Police Force

The investigation is being conducted by the Politiezone Scheldewaas, a multi-municipal police zone responsible for the safety and security of several communities in the region. This zone covers the municipalities of Beveren-Kruibeke-Zwijndrecht, Sint-Gillis-Waas, Stekene, and Temse. Individuals requiring police assistance – whether to file a complaint, report an incident, or seek information – can visit any of the police stations within the zone. Alternatively, many services are available through the online police portal.

Recent Formation of the Politiezone Scheldewaas

The Politiezone Scheldewaas is a relatively new entity, having been formed on January 1, 2025, through the merger of several existing police zones. Specifically, it consolidated the Waasland-Noord, Kruibeke/Temse zones in East Flanders, and the Zwijndrecht police zone, which previously fell under the jurisdiction of the province of Antwerp. At the time of its formation, the zone was comprised of approximately 400 agents and civilian personnel. Leo Mares, formerly the chief of police for PZ Waasland-Noord, is currently serving as the acting chief of the newly formed zone even as a permanent appointment is made.

Increased Police Presence and Ongoing Monitoring

In response to the recent incident and the preceding tensions, the Politiezone Scheldewaas has increased its visibility around Sint-Maarten school. Officials stated they had already been conducting extra surveillance in the area throughout the week prior to the fight. This proactive approach aims to deter further conflict and ensure the safety of students and the wider community. The police are urging anyone with information about the incident to come forward and assist with the investigation.

How to Contact the Politiezone Scheldewaas

For urgent police assistance, dial 101. For non-emergency situations, or to contact the police for information, you can reach them at 03 376 21 00. The administrative offices are located at Gravenplein 7, 9120 Beveren. You can also reach them via email at [email protected] or visit their website at www.politie.be/5964.

What Happens Next?

The Politiezone Scheldewaas will continue its investigation, gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the full circumstances of the brawl. The investigation will likely involve reviewing security camera footage from the area, as well as the video of the incident that has been circulating online. Depending on the findings, those involved may face legal consequences. The police will also maintain an increased presence in the area to monitor the situation and prevent further escalation of tensions. The Politieraad (Police Council) oversees the operation of the Politiezone Scheldewaas, and agendas and decisions from their meetings are publicly available.