Lokeren – Police reported 88 interventions at the Lokerse Feesten and Fonnefeesten, including 39 fights and 18 intoxication detentions. One suspect was arrested following a car crash, while authorities continue searching for another, reports 24brussels.
This year’s Lokerse Feesten and Fonnefeesten were deemed mostly calm, according to VRT News. The festival zone, encompassing the ticketed Lokerse Feesten, the free Fonnefeesten, and the adjacent funfair, experienced a total of 88 police interventions. While 39 were related to fights, only 14 resulted in formal reports, as many incidents were promptly resolved without further legal repercussions.
“Thanks to the large presence and the camera surveillance, we can see emerging conflicts and intervene before they escalate,”
says police chief Dirk De Pape.
“Considering the number of visitors and the state some of them are in, 39 interventions is quite modest.”
Police Strategies for Ensuring Safety at the Festivals
During the festivities, police focused on addressing heavy drinking and disturbances. A total of 18 individuals were detained overnight due to intoxication that posed a risk to themselves or others. These individuals were held to safely sober up. Additionally, 16 attendees were arrested for causing disturbances and compromising public order.
Throughout the festival week, police made four arrests, including two individuals for assaulting officers and two others wanted for unrelated crimes. Authorities reported these numbers as low, indicating a lack of serious incidents during the event.
Authorities also made 13 reports related to drug possession, actively combating illegal substance use. There were five noise complaints filed during nighttime hours. Overall, law enforcement described the week as safe and well-organized, with no significant disruptions.
In a notable incident, a car crashed into the fairground before fleeing towards Antwerp. Police responded swiftly, arresting one suspect that evening; however, the second suspect remains at large.
Preliminary reports suggest that the vehicle may have been located in Nijlen, a town in the Antwerp province, but this has not been officially confirmed by police or prosecutors. Investigations are ongoing as officers continue their search for the second suspect.
The Lokerse Feesten and Fonnefeesten are well-attended summer events in Lokeren, drawing large crowds annually. The festivals feature ticketed concerts, free activities, and a funfair. Given the significant number of attendees, police are deployed to ensure safety and promptly address any arising issues. Officials noted that most incidents tend to be minor in nature, concerning fights, excessive noise, or intoxicated visitors.
