Brussels: Young Boys Armed with Weapons Disrupt Stores, Police Investigating

Brussels, Belgium – A shop owner in central Brussels was reportedly targeted by a group of young boys wielding what appeared to be firearms on Saturday afternoon. The incident occurred around 3:00 PM at the Neuf Gift Store, located near the entrance to Rue Dansaert.

Details of the Incident

Valérie, the owner of the Neuf Gift Store, stated that three boys, estimated to be between eight and twelve years old, entered her shop while she was assisting another customer. According to her account, the boys immediately began throwing objects and causing a disturbance. She physically intervened when one of the boys moved towards the stock area.

Did You Know? The incident occurred on Saturday, February 2, 2026, at approximately 3:00 PM.

The situation escalated when the boys allegedly began kicking the shop’s door and window, causing Valérie to fear damage to the glass. They reportedly displayed concealed weapons in their pants, and verbally provoked Valérie, asking if she would call the police.

Valérie indicated that the boys returned and discharged what she initially believed were real firearms, resulting in contusions to her arms, and torso. It was later determined the weapons were air pistols, but she noted that even a metal pellet from an air pistol can cause pain.

Police Response and Investigation

Police responded to Valérie’s call for assistance. A spokesperson for the Brussels-Capital/Ixelles police zone confirmed officers were dispatched to the scene, deferring further information to the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office, which had not yet provided a statement as of today, February 2, 2026.

Expert Insight: Incidents involving young individuals and weapons, even if not lethal, raise concerns about public safety and the potential for escalation. The response from law enforcement and the judicial system will be critical in addressing the underlying issues and preventing future occurrences.

The boys were reportedly apprehended shortly after near Place de la Bourse. Other businesses in the area have stated they did not experience similar incidents with the same group of boys in recent weeks.

The group is also believed to have targeted the nearby Brussels Beer Project store, where they were seen on surveillance footage brandishing weapons and mimicking a robbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What happened at the Neuf Gift Store?

Three young boys, estimated to be between eight and twelve years old, entered the store and caused a disturbance, allegedly displaying weapons and causing injuries to the shop owner.

What type of weapons were involved?

The weapons were initially believed to be real firearms, but were later identified as air pistols. Valérie sustained contusions from the pellets.

What is the status of the investigation?

Police responded to the scene and the boys were reportedly apprehended near Place de la Bourse. The Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office is handling the investigation, but had not released a statement as of February 2, 2026.

What role might community programs play in addressing the factors that contribute to youth involvement in such incidents?