Strict checks on Tomorrowland party flights at Brussels

Police failed to find any drugs. Some passengers were not impressed by their reception.

Some 60,000 people representing 200 different nationalities are expected for the Tomorrowland festival in Boom (Antwerp) this weekend and next.

As a result Belgian police have adopted an international approach.

Police officer Gwen Merckx: "Tomorrowland has become an international event with more nationalities than the Olympics. For a first time this year we asked police and customs services abroad to help us keep the festival safe and we’ve had a tremendous response."

People travelling to Tomorrowland will be checked by police and customs at home and abroad, at railway stations and airports.

Customs are carrying out additional checks in Belgium.

Checks for drugs and drink driving will also be made on roads to Boom and on trains.

On Wednesday 128 passengers on a flight from London (UK) were checked.

At Brussels Airport the party-goers were met by a large contingent of police, sniffer dogs and press.

Seven people identified by sniffer dogs had to undergo a strenuous check, but no drugs were found.

Police officer Peter De Waele: "We’re performing stricter checks this year because drugs were found last year. It’s a preventative action. We want everybody to enjoy the festival in a safe environment."

One Australian guest told VRT News: "This is not a hearty welcome. I think it’s rather rude." A Scottish guest added: "I don’t think I’m coming back."

Flandersnews.be / Expatica