Congolese Journalist Claude Pero Luwara Attacked in Belgium, Three Masked Men Allegedly Assault Him with a Hammer
Congolese journalist Claude Pero Luwara was reportedly attacked in Belgium after three masked individuals allegedly assaulted him in the city of Tirlemont, in the Flemish Brabant province.
The attack took place on Thursday, September 3, 2026, during the daytime, in an area located in the center of Tirlemont. According to the information available, the three individuals, whose faces were concealed, approached Luwara and allegedly began striking him on the head with a hammer.
The circumstances surrounding the attack and the exact motive behind it remain unclear. So far, no sufficient information has been made public regarding the identities of the alleged attackers or whether an individual or organized group may be behind the incident.
Third Attack Since June 2025
The latest incident brings to three the number of attacks that Claude Pero Luwara says he has experienced in Belgium since June 2025.
It is also reportedly the second attack to have occurred in Tirlemont, further raising concerns about the journalist’s safety.
Luwara is known as a Congolese journalist who has reported on political, security and social issues in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), as well as political activities involving Congolese communities living abroad.
The role of journalists such as Luwara in reporting events, informing the public, and bringing attention to the actions of authorities and challenges affecting society makes their safety a particularly important concern, especially when they face attacks or threats.
Motive Behind the Attack Remains Unclear
Although Luwara says this is the third attack against him since June 2025, the exact motives behind these incidents remain unknown.
Another key question is whether the latest attack was intended solely to injure him or whether there was another objective behind it. It also remains to be seen how Belgian authorities will pursue the investigation to determine who was responsible.
As of now, the names of the alleged attackers, their motives, and whether anyone may have ordered or organized the assault remain unknown.
This underscores the need for a thorough investigation to establish exactly what happened, determine the motive behind the attack, and identify those involved.
Journalist Safety Remains a Serious Concern
The attack on Claude Pero Luwara has once again highlighted concerns over the safety of journalists, particularly those reporting on political and security-related issues.
For journalists, the right to carry out their professional duties and provide information to the public is a fundamental element of a society that respects freedom of the press.
However, when a journalist is subjected to violence because of their work, the issue extends beyond the individual concerned. Such incidents can have broader implications for press freedom and the public’s right to access information.
At present, detailed information regarding the injuries Luwara may have sustained, as well as any other damage resulting from the attack, has not been officially disclosed.
An investigation will be essential in establishing what happened in Tirlemont and determining whether the latest incident is connected to the other attacks that the journalist says he has experienced since June 2025.