Belgium intensifies patrols in trains, stations after French train attack

Belgium decided to step up patrols in trains and stations, a day after a Kalashnikov-wielding man's attack on a high-speed Amsterdam to Paris train was foiled, official sources said Saturday.

Belgian Prime Minister Charles Michel has convened Saturday lunchtime a National Security Council, during which a number of measures were decided and should be implemented "from this weekend."

For instance, the Franco-Belgian joint patrols will be intensified on Thalys trains daily, and patrols and controls will be strengthened in the international railway stations in cooperation with local police. Luggage checks will be strengthened.

The prime minister also urged all federal and local police to increase vigilance against suspicious behavior for all major events and large gatherings of people.

In addition, Michel proposed to "urgently" organize a joint meeting between the transport and interior ministers (Belgium/ France/Germany/Netherlands) to strengthen "operational" measures of prevention against terrorism, including identity and luggage checks.

"We have to look at all options, but if it proves necessary, a modification of the Schengen agreement is possible," he further told the Belgian radio.

A shooting happened Friday in a Thalys train between Paris and Amsterdam, injuring three people. The suspect boarded from Brussels Midi station, according to the French intelligence services.

The identity of the suspect has not yet been officially confirmed.

Charles Michel and French President Francois Hollande held a talk over phone Friday evening, agreeing to further cooperation between the French and Belgian services. Two investigators of the Belgian Federal Judicial Police have been sent to France. Enditem