The operation aimed to secure the neighborhood and address the use of many vacant apartments for drug trafficking purposes.

During the searches, authorities discovered precision scales and drugs, underscoring the apartments' role in the drug trade.

Jurgen De Landsheer, chief of police of the Brussels-South zone, reported that 271 apartments were found empty, indicating their involvement in illegal activities.

To prevent a resurgence of illegal activities, police plan to 'freeze' the vacant apartments, with some being closed off and others allocated to those on a housing waiting list.

This operation is part of a broader strategic plan consisting of five phases aimed at regaining control over drug dealing zones, including areas like Matonge and Place de Bethléem.

On June 11, 2025, a significant police operation took place in the Peterbos neighborhood of Anderlecht, Brussels, involving 900 officers and resulting in the arrest of 29 individuals.

Prosecutor Julien Moinil described the operation as part of a larger strategy to combat ongoing drug trafficking issues in the area, rather than a complete solution.

The operation involved checking 411 individuals and 117 vehicles, leading to 19 administrative arrests and serious charges against four individuals.

Additionally, two wanted individuals were apprehended, and four people involved in undeclared work were also stopped.

Authorities seized drugs and one weapon during the operation, highlighting the ongoing criminal activities in the area.

Moinil emphasized the long-standing nature of the drug trafficking issue, calling the visible drug pricing on a wall shocking.

Moinil indicated that similar operations will continue in the future, although specific details will remain undisclosed to avoid alerting criminals.