Reusable cup thefts have become a growing concern during the Gentse Feesten, targeting not only festival-goers but also the event’s sustainability efforts. As of 2025-07-24 07:00:00, reports reveal that these “bekerbendes” (cup gangs) are operating with increasing boldness, causing significant financial losses over just ten days.
- Theven target reusable cups beyond festival
- Bekerbendes earn nearly 1,200 euros per load
- Thousands of euros stolen from deposit system
- Secure cups and limit exchanges implemented
- Children exploited in cup theft schemes
- Hundreds of stolen cups found in vehicle
These thefts are not limited to Gentse Feesten alone; similar incidents have been recorded in other Belgian events. With thousands of euros in deposits disappearing, event organisers are now exploring stricter security measures and limits on cup exchanges to curb the problem. But how can these measures balance security without spoiling the festive atmosphere?
Understanding the scale and impact of these thefts is crucial for both attendees and organisers, as the fight against bekerbendes intensifies.
Why are these thefts escalating, and what can be done to stop them? The rise of bekerbendes raises questions about event security and community responsibility. Key points to consider include:
- Bekerbendes have been found with hundreds of cups in vehicles, amounting to nearly €1,200 in deposits.
- Some gangs even use children to collect cups, increasing their haul during the festival.
- Organisers are now monitoring suspicious activities and implementing exchange limits to reduce losses.
- Balancing security with a positive festival experience remains a challenge for Gentse Feesten.
Looking ahead, stronger collaboration between festival organisers, local authorities, and attendees is essential to prevent further losses. Will new security measures be enough to deter these cup gangs, or is a broader cultural shift needed to safeguard Belgium’s beloved festivals?
