An investigation is underway in Antwerp following an altercation at the city hall involving Vlaams Belang politicians Filip Dewinter and Anke Van dermeersch, as well as members of a wedding party present in the building.
Dispute at the Main Entrance
According to statements released by Vlaams Belang, the incident occurred on Friday afternoon when Dewinter attempted to enter Antwerp City Hall via the main entrance after realizing he had forgotten his access badge. The politician was visiting the building to attend a municipal meeting and sign a book of condolences for the late musician John De Wilde.
Dewinter claims he was recognized and verbally abused before being pushed and assaulted by multiple individuals attending a wedding gathering. He sustained minor head injuries during the altercation. Fellow party member Anke Van dermeersch reportedly filmed the encounter, rejecting allegations that she initiated or provoked the confrontation.
Police Investigation Underway
Local police deployed multiple patrols to the scene shortly after the disturbance began. Law enforcement officers questioned attendees and detained two individuals for verification. Dewinter has officially filed a complaint for assault and battery.
Both politicians have called for the release and thorough review of surveillance camera footage to determine the exact sequence of events, maintaining that they were the victims of targeted political violence rather than instigators of a brawl.