At the Extrema Outdoor festival in Houthalen, new drug policies took centre stage on 2025-06-09 18:15:00, marking a significant shift in how drug-related offences are handled. The Limburg prosecutor, Frank Bleyen, announced stricter rules targeting not only dealers but also those distributing drugs among friends, aiming to enhance safety at one of Belgium’s largest outdoor events.
- Verstrengde criteria leiden tot directe verwijdering
- Minstens vijftien festivalgangers verloren toegang
- Boetes variëren tussen 125 en 1.100 euro
- Vijf personen gearresteerd voor drugshandel
- Politie trok 73 rijbewijzen in weekend
- Samenwerking versterkt veiligheid tijdens festival
This tougher stance quickly proved effective. Local police from zone Carma reported that at least fifteen festivalgoers were removed on the spot for drug offences, with wristbands cut and fines imposed immediately. The crackdown reflects a broader increase in drug-related penalties compared to previous years, signalling a zero-tolerance approach.
How will these measures impact festival culture in Limburg? And can this strategy be a model for other events across Belgium? The answers lie in the immediate results and ongoing enforcement efforts.
The intensified drug policy raises important questions about balancing security and festival freedom. Is the increased policing deterring drug use effectively, or could it push issues underground? Key points to consider include:
- Immediate fines doubled from last year, totalling nearly €100,000 collected on-site.
- Five individuals were arrested for drug dealing, with some detained after judicial review.
- Enhanced traffic controls resulted in 73 license suspensions, mostly for driving under influence.
- Collaborative efforts between police, prosecutors, and organisers proved crucial in maintaining order.
Looking ahead, will other Belgian festivals adopt similar drug policies? The positive outcomes at Extrema Outdoor suggest that combining strict enforcement with public awareness can create safer event environments. Stakeholders should continue refining these strategies to protect visitors while preserving the festival spirit.
