Swedish Men Killed in Brussels Shooting Targeted in Terror Attack
Two Swedish men, aged in their 60s and 70s, were tragically killed on Monday evening when a man opened fire with an automatic weapon in central Brussels. Additionally, another Swedish citizen sustained serious injuries in the attack. The incident occurred at Sainctelette square at around 19:15 local time.
The Swedish Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirmed the ages of the deceased victims to various media outlets on Tuesday afternoon. Reports indicate that the two men were wearing Swedish national team shirts, heightening the tragedy as it happened just an hour and a half before Sweden’s European Championship qualifying match against Belgium.
During a press conference, Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson (M) described the attack as a probable act of terrorism specifically targeting Swedish citizens. He also mentioned that the perpetrator seemed to have acted alone.
The main suspect in the shooting, identified as Abdesalem Lassoued, is reportedly a 45-year-old Tunisian man who was in Belgium without a permit. His asylum application had been rejected in 2020, according to multiple media sources.
Videos circulating on social media reveal a man in an orange reflective jacket riding a moped and picking up a weapon before indiscriminately opening fire. Another video captures the same individual admitting to killing three Swedes, stating, “we die for our religion” and seeking revenge for Muslims. He claims allegiance to the Islamic State (IS).
In a swift response from Belgian authorities, the suspect was confronted by police in the Schaerbeek district and subsequently shot. He later succumbed to his injuries.
Following the horrifying incident, the terror threat level in Brussels has been raised to its highest level, four. The Foreign Ministry released a statement advising Swedes abroad to exercise increased caution in light of the attack.
The shooting in Brussels has once again highlighted the ongoing threat of terrorism, emphasizing the need for nations to remain vigilant and united in the face of such senseless acts of violence.