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Brussels' Turkish communal hall evacuated over suspect package

Xinhua, August 5, 2016 Adjust font size:

Part of the communal hall of Brussels' Turkish community Saint-Josse was evacuated Friday morning after receiving a suspicious package, local media reported.

Along with the package there is a threatening letter addressed to deputy mayor Emir Kir. The letter urged him to leave Belgium in a message that ends with the word "Caution!", according to a photo of the letter released by Belgian broadcaster RTBF.

The envelope also contained white powder. Firefighters have sent specialized teams dealing with "anthrax" to the scene, said spokesman of the Brussels fire department Pierre Meys.

The letter reached the town hall at 9 a.m. local time. Four people who had direct contact with the powder was hospitalized, with laboratory results pending, according to Meys.

"Xenophobia is unfolding in a virulent way (in Brussels)," said Kir, urging people to "disseminate messages of unity." Endit