Shocking images from the scene show police quickly forcing a suspect to the ground.

21:41, Thu, Jan 22, 2026 Updated: 21:43, Thu, Jan 22, 2026

Antwerp knife attack

Antwerp knife attack has left six people injured and two in a critical condition (Image: RTL info)

A major European city has been rocked by a mass stabbing attack, with six people injured and two victims fighting for their lives in hospital. The horror unfolded at a protest near the busy square of Operaplein in Antwerp, Belgium, on Thursday evening. 

Six people were injured in the attack, with two victims now fighting for their lives in hospital. The incident took place during a protest near the busy Operaplein square on Thursday evening. The incident took place during a protest near the busy Operaplein square on Thursday evening. Terrified witnesses described scenes of chaos as people ran for their lives while emergency crews battled to save the injured. Armed police swiftly detained two suspects as the area was sealed off.

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Two suspects arrested

Police have confirmed they have arrested two suspects as an investigation gets underway.

One suspect was reported to be forced to the ground during the arrest.

Victims found across city centre

Two victims are currently in critical condition. 

Four injured people were found on the square itself, while a fifth and sixth victim were discovered nearby at Rooseveltplaats and Sint-Elisabethstraat.

Police rushed in as violence erupted

According to police, the stabbings took place around 7.20pm, prompting officers to intervene immediately while calling in emergency medical teams.

Officers already present at the square were able to administer first aid to victims before ambulances arrived.

Picture from the scene

The scene in Antwerp currently cordoned off.

Antwerp

caption: Antwerp knife attack https://www.rtl.be/actu/belgique/faits-divers/attaque-au-couteau-anve (Image: RTL info)

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Attack broke out during Kurdish protest

The stabbing unfolded during a Kurdish demonstration on Opera Square, where Kurdish and PKK flags were being waved.

Around 50 protesters were present, and police were already on site to monitor the gathering, which had been peaceful for most of the evening.

As the demonstration was drawing to a close at around 7.20pm, the situation suddenly escalated.

At least six injured

At least six people have been injured in a mass stabbing attack in Antwerp, with two victims now fighting for their lives in hospital.

The frenzy unfolded during a protest near the busy Operaplein square this evening.

We will bring you more updates as they arrive.