Peace returns to Heusden-Zolder and Houthalen after serious riots between Turkish and Kurdish communities

Look at. Violence during riots in Heusden-Zolder

According to the mayor of Houthalen-Helchteren, Alain Yzermans (Vooruit), a confrontation between groups of individuals of Kurdish and Turkish origin escalated on Sunday afternoon. “The reason for this confrontation was a convoy of Kurds from Leuven that headed towards Houthalen and Heusden and displayed symbols that provoked discussions with individuals of Turkish origin. This resulted in the physical assault of a Turkish man. The incident caused several confrontations, which spread across the Houthalen and Heusden-Zolder region,” says Yzermans.

A house was targeted on Kolderstraat in the Lindeman district (Heusden-Zolder), where people of Kurdish descent had withdrawn. In no time, hundreds of people gathered there, and the atmosphere became very grim. Because the situation escalated in the early evening on Sunday, the police intervention plan was announced. Limburg police forces, the intervention force and the federal police were deployed to disperse the rioters. The water cannon was used. A federal police helicopter also circled in the air to keep a close eye on everything.

The Sultan Ahmet mosque in Heusden-Zolder distributed a message on Sunday evening with a call for calm. “Unfortunately, as a result of provocation, events occurred that we absolutely did not want. The police have now taken control of the situation and we invite everyone to remain calm and return home and not become an instrument in anyone’s game. We need peace and tranquility in the holy month of Ramadan. Please do not allow any steps that may disturb peace,” the social media post said.