(VOVworld) – Belgium’s Coordinating Body for Threat Analysis (OCAM) said Friday that it will maintain its terror alert at level three nationwide, underling the "serious and imminent" risks of security threats.
Heavy Belgian military vehicle is parked in downtown Brussels, capital of Belgium, Nov. 23, 2015, the third day of lockdown under a maximum terror alert, with schools, shopping malls, and underground transport shut. (Photo: Xinhua/Ye Pingfan) |
The decision was made based on assessments by the OCAM and its intelligence and security agencies.
Last December, the Belgian government approved the maintenance of military forces to secure safety at a number of places and headquarters. The decision will take effect until January 20th.
Terror warning was raised to the maximum four for Brussels on November 21st last year following a series of attacks in Paris claiming the lives of 130 people. People have been informed not to gather at crowded places while policemen and armed forces have been increased in streets, stations, and airports.
The current terror alert level would be reassessed on a daily basis, he added.