The Albanian community in Belgium and beyond has been deeply shaken by the tragic killing of an Albanian taxi driver in the city of Geel. Belgian authorities have confirmed that two young men, aged 20 and 24, have been arrested and placed in pre-trial detention in connection with the murder. The case has sparked strong reactions among Albanians living abroad, especially those working in transport and service sectors.
Victim Identified as Albanian National Marko Beka
The victim has been identified as Marko Beka, a 45-year-old Albanian citizen who lived in Geel, Belgium. He was married and a father of three children. Marko Beka worked as a taxi driver and was well known within the local Albanian community as a hardworking family man.
According to official information released by the Antwerp Prosecutor’s Office, Beka was shot dead on Friday evening at approximately 9:00 PM. The shooting occurred near a park behind a church in the village of Larum, a quiet area that rarely sees serious crime.
Events Leading Up to the Shooting
At the time of the incident, Marko Beka was reportedly standing outside his taxi and talking to several individuals believed to be passengers. Investigators suspect that a verbal dispute broke out, which may have escalated rapidly and violently. Belgian authorities have indicated that the leading theory involves an argument that went out of control.
However, prosecutors have also emphasized a key detail that raises further questions: the victim was “not chosen at random.” This statement suggests that the crime may not have been entirely spontaneous and that there could be underlying motives still under investigation.
Emergency Response and Death at the Scene
Emergency services responded quickly after reports of gunfire in the area. Paramedics and police arrived at the scene within minutes, but despite their efforts, Marko Beka succumbed to his gunshot wounds. His death was confirmed at the scene, marking yet another tragic loss for the Albanian diaspora in Europe.
The area surrounding the park was cordoned off for several hours as forensic teams, criminal investigators, and a forensic doctor conducted a detailed examination of the scene. Witnesses were questioned, and evidence was collected to help reconstruct the events of that night.
Arrests and Judicial Measures
Belgian police moved swiftly in the hours following the murder. Two suspects, aged 20 and 24, were arrested and questioned. The investigating judge ordered both individuals to be placed in pre-trial detention, a decision later confirmed by the Antwerp Prosecutor’s Office.
Authorities have not yet released the identities or nationalities of the suspects, citing the ongoing nature of the investigation. It also remains unclear whether the suspects had any prior relationship with the victim or if the meeting was related strictly to his work as a taxi driver.
Investigation Still Ongoing
The prosecution has stated that investigations are continuing intensively to clarify the exact motive behind the killing and to determine the role of each suspect. At this stage, it has not been confirmed whether the murder was premeditated or the result of a sudden conflict.
Belgian officials are also examining whether additional individuals may have been involved or whether there are connections to other criminal activities. Ballistic reports, phone data, and witness testimonies are expected to play a crucial role in the next phase of the investigation.
Impact on the Albanian Community
The murder of Marko Beka has caused widespread grief and concern among Albanians living in Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, and other European countries. Many Albanian taxi drivers and delivery workers have expressed fears about their safety, especially when working late hours.
Social media platforms have been flooded with messages of condolence, calls for justice, and appeals for stronger protection of migrant workers. Community leaders have urged calm while demanding a thorough and transparent investigation from Belgian authorities.
A Family Left Behind
Beyond the legal proceedings and investigation details, this tragedy has a deeply human side. Marko Beka leaves behind a wife and three children, whose lives have been permanently altered. Friends and relatives describe him as a devoted father who worked long hours to support his family.
Several members of the Albanian community have reportedly begun organizing support initiatives to assist the family during this difficult time.
Conclusion
The killing of Albanian taxi driver Marko Beka in Geel, Belgium, is a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by migrant workers across Europe. While the arrest of two suspects marks an important step toward justice, many questions remain unanswered.
As investigations continue, the Albanian community awaits clarity, accountability, and justice for a life lost far too soon. Authorities have promised further updates as new information becomes available.