A police officer has been stabbed to death and another has been injured in a suspected terror attack in Brussels.
Belgian police said the suspected attacker was shot and “neutralised” after the attack near Brussels North train station at around 7.15pm local time on Thursday.
“One of our patrols was attacked by a man armed with a knife,” a police spokesman said. “The two police officers then called for reinforcements. An officer from another patrol used his firearm to neutralise the attacker.
“The two injured detectives and the assailant were taken to hospital.”
Le Soir newspaper said the police officer who died was stabbed in the neck and was pronounced dead in hospital.
A judicial official who could not be quoted by name because the investigation is ongoing told the Associated Press there is “a suspicion of a terror attack.” The official did not elaborate.
According to Belgian media, the attacker shouted “Allahu akbar,” the Arabic phrase for “God is great”. However, this was not immediately confirmed by local prosecutors.
Belgian prime minister Alexander De Croo posted a message of condolences to the family and friends of the dead officer, saying: “Our police officers risk their lives every day to ensure the safety of our citizens. Today’s tragedy demonstrates this once again.”
Interior minister Annelies Verlinden said she was in contact with the Brussels mayor, police chief and security services to coordinate the response to the attack.
“Such violence against our people is unacceptable,” she said.
