Travel warning: Holidaymakers warned of threat of ‘violent robbery’ when visiting Belgium

The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) updated its ‘Safety and Security’ advice regarding travelling in busy parts of the country.

It stressed that pickpocketing is very common and holidaymakers should be mindful of their belongings.

It said: “Theft and pickpocketing is common in crowded areas. Take care of your baggage and passports and beware of any attempts to distract you.

“Take extra care in major railway stations and on public transport, particularly late at night.

“Thieves, pickpockets and muggers operate in busy areas, and there have been cases of violent robbery. Be aware of your surroundings.”

The Government body said to be particularly mindful at Brussels Gare du Midi/Zuidstation (Eurostar terminal) and Brussels Gare du Nord, on international trains, mainly Paris-Brussels and Amsterdam-Brussels and in busy areas of central Brussels, including Schuman (the EU quarter).

Britons should be aware of where their belongings are at all times. The FCDO warned: “Never leave luggage unattended.

“Luggage has been stolen from the racks at the end of carriages in high-speed trains (TGV and Thalys), usually just before the doors close.”

Belongings can also be taken from your hands or even from your transport, so do not leave valuables in plain sight in your car, for example.

The warning continued: “Thieves, usually on motorbikes, can break a car window and snatch valuables from the front or back passenger seat when a vehicle is stationary at traffic lights. If you see anything suspicious, report it to local police authorities.”