Belgium’s capital city Brussels is on lockdown after a man stabbed a police officer early this morning. This is the latest travel advice.
The official was stabbed in the neck by a knife-wielding attacker who reportedly yelled “Allahu Akbar” before launching the attack.
The incident took place in front of a city centre police station near the Grand Place, a world-renowned tourist attraction in Belgium.
The police officer was stabbed around 5.30am local time this morning.
Ilse Van De Keere, a police spokesman, said the suspect was shot and wounded by another officer.
She said there is no current confirmation of the attack being a terror incident and investigations are ongoing.
Police would not confirm witness reports the suspect said “Allahu Akbar” when he attacked.
Terrorists are “very likely” to try to carry out attacks in Belgium, said the UK Foreign and Commonwealth Office.
They warn: “Attacks could happen anywhere, including on public transport and transport hubs and in other places visited by foreigners.
“You should be vigilant in public places and follow the advice of local Belgian authorities.”
There have tragically been a number of high profile terrorist attacks across Belgium in recent years.
In May this year, two police officers and a passer-by were killed in a shooting in the city of Liège in a suspected terrorist incident.
In 2017, a man attacked two soldiers with a knife in Brussels in August, and in June Belgian security forces helped prevent a suspected terrorist attack at Brussels central station.
The FCO encourage Britons to be “vigilant at all times,” for their own safety.
The website details advice to tourists heading abroad who are concerned.
They advise looking out for “anything suspicious and if you see anything report it to the local police immediately – many terrorist attacks are foiled by the vigilance of the public.”
The FCO also suggest being “vigilant in public areas and places that attract foreigners and westerners – eg hotels, restaurants, bars and crowded places like markets, malls or sports events. Always be aware of your surroundings.”
It’s also important to be vigilant at the airport. “In airports, minimise the time spent in the public area, which is generally less well protected,” said the FCO.
“Move quickly from the check-in counter to the secured areas. Upon arrival, leave the airport as soon as possible.”
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