The decision not to prosecute police officers involved in the tragic death of 17-year-old Mehdi Bouda has sparked outrage across Belgium. The family’s call for justice highlights concerns over accountability when law enforcement is implicated in fatal accidents. On 2025-06-25 02:23:00, the chamber of inbeschuldigingstelling ruled that the officers will not face trial, a verdict that has left many questioning the fairness of the legal process.
- Familie Bouda roept op tot betoging
- Agenten betrokken bij dodelijk ongeval vrijgesteld
- Familie moet rechtsplegingsvergoeding betalen aan agenten
- Politiewagen reed 98 km/u zonder sirene
- Advocaat eist vervolging voor onopzettelijke doding
- Raadkamer volgt parket, agenten niet vervolgd
Mehdi Bouda’s death on a Brussels zebra crossing in 2019 was initially seen as an unfortunate accident. However, new details about the police vehicle’s excessive speed and risky manoeuvres have raised serious doubts. Why are those responsible not held accountable, and what message does this send to the public about justice in Belgium?
With the family now forced to pay legal fees and planning a protest on 29 June outside the Brussels Justitiepaleis, the debate over police responsibility in fatal incidents intensifies. This case invites US to consider how justice is served when public servants cause harm.
Does this ruling reflect systemic issues within Belgium’s judicial handling of police-related deaths? The case raises critical questions about transparency and fairness:
- The officers were driving at 98 km/h without sirens, against traffic, near a zebra crossing.
- Despite prior traffic violations, the driver was not prosecuted for negligent homicide.
- The family faces significant legal costs, while the officers receive compensation.
- Protests planned for 29 June aim to demand justice and reform.
As the family prepares to voice their frustration publicly, will Belgian authorities reconsider policies on police conduct and legal responsibility? Citizens and officials alike must ask: how can justice be ensured when those sworn to protect may cause harm? The upcoming protest could mark a pivotal moment for change.
