Belgian news in brief, 28 August 2006

Security cameras for Belgian rail

Belgian rail NMBS-SNCB will install security cameras at 50 train stations. In total,1,500 cameras will be installed. The investment is valued at EUR 10 million. The project must be completed by 2010. A national surveillance room will also be set up, NMBS-SNCB said on Monday. The scheme is designed to improve the feeling of safety among commuters and staff. The NMBS-SNCB security service, Securail, will also recruit an extra 50 workers by the start of 2007.

Rainfall leads to more accidents

Motorists association Touring has said a 20 percent increase in traffic accidents has been recorded in recent days. The organisation said motorists have not adjusted their driving to the weather conditions and the heavy rainfalls. It advised drivers on Monday that wet roads are twice as slippery as dry roads. It means the chance of an accident is double what it is in dry weather.

Three held over ‘racist’ stabbing

Leuven police arrested on Monday three youths for the violent assault of two Slovakians in Tienen. The victims were attacked on Saturday night by a group of skinheads. One of the victims was seriously wounded. The three suspects were being questioned on Monday, but had allegedly given contradictory statements. More arrests have not been ruled out.

Subject: Belgian news