The attacks that shook the capital of Belgium this morning, killing dozens of people and putting Brussels on lockdown, are resonating around the world, including here in Metro Vancouver.
Two separate explosions, one at the Brussels airport and another at a subway station, claimed the lives of at least 31 people and injured many more, according to Belgium media.
Vancouver police will be deploying additional police resources throughout the city in light of the attacks. They are also encouraging the public and business owners to remain vigilant. Anyone who sees what appears to be unusual or suspicious activity is encouraged to report it to their local police.
Anne Drennan with Transit Police says there is no threat locally, but there are extra police officers on patrol, including two explosives sniffing dogs.
WATCH: One of the TransLink bomb sniffing dogs was checking out the Lougheed SkyTrain Station in Burnaby this morning.
Meanwhile, operations at the Vancouver International Airport have not been affected, as there are no direct flights to Brussels out of YVR.
However, airport officials are confirming to Global News they have increased security at the airport and RCMP are in the terminal.
They say the terror threat level has not been increased and they are taking direction from Ottawa.
“We have raised our overall level of vigilance,” said Craig Richmond, President and CEO of Vancouver Airport Authority, adding he can’t get into any details. “Certainly, we are at a more heightened level of awareness.”
WATCH: Craig Richmond, President and Chief Executive Officer of Vancouver Airport Authority addresses questions at YVR Tuesday, March 22 following a series of terror attacks at Brussels Zaventem airport in Belgium.
Richmond says the increased level of security will not affect screening time for passengers and they are not advising passengers to arrive at the airport earlier.
LIVE COVERAGE: Brussels on lockdown after explosions rock airport, subway
The Canadian government has issued a warning for travellers abroad to remain vigilant in the aftermath of the attacks. Although there are no reports of any Canadian casualties so far, Global Affairs Canada said they are monitoring the situation closely.
More to come.
Comments