Portuguese police help catch pickpockets at Gentse Feesten
Ghent's police will get help from Portuguese officers to catch pickpockets during the 10-day Gentse Feesten festival, which starts tomorrow. The exchange project is part of a larger European cooperation initiative, VRT reports.
Dutch police officers in uniform have been seen in Ghent during the festivities for years. They come to support the local police in their contacts with the many Dutch visitors. They may also identify compatriots and, if necessary, arrest them.
This year, some Portuguese officers will also be deployed to help reduce the number of pickpocketing cases. They will go out at night in plain clothes with their colleagues from Ghent.
The mixed patrols, with Dutch and Portuguese officers, are possible thanks to European treaties. Ghent police officers went an international exchange themselves recently. The officers exchange experiences and knowledge about the working methods of criminal gangs.
The annual Gentse Feesten in Ghent’s city centre take place from 19 to 28 July. The 10-day festival is recognised as Flemish intangible heritage and is among the biggest popular festivals in Europe thanks to its varied and free offer of music performances, street theatre, exhibitions, activities for children, fairs and parades.
#FlandersNewsService | Visitors at the Graslei watching the Polé Polé podium during the Gentse Feesten © PHOTO ARTERRA
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