Ottawa

Ottawa police increase foot patrols after Brussels explosions

Ottawa police will increase the frequency of foot patrols at popular gathering spots in the city following Tuesday's deadly explosions in Brussels, according to the force's superintendent responsible for emergency operations.

No change to threat level here, superintendent says

The flag of Belgium flies in front of Ottawa city hall on March 22, 2016. Ottawa police said they'd step up foot patrols at popular gathering places in the city following Tuesday's attacks in Brussels. (Stu Mills/CBC)

Ottawa police will increase the frequency of foot patrols at popular gathering spots in the city following Tuesday's deadly explosions in Brussels, according to the force's superintendent responsible for emergency operations.

"We've told our officers at the airport, the train station, the bus station and downtown to remain vigilant. We've asked them to do more walk-throughs," said Supt. Scott Nystedt.

In Toronto, police also stepped up their presence at Union Station.

Despite the added patrols, Nystedt said there's nothing to indicate a heightened risk of an attack in Ottawa following the attacks in Brussels. 

"We have been briefed by RCMP and CSIS in regards to threat levels. There are no changes [to threat levels] in Ottawa, or even in Canada at this point."

Meanwhile Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson announced the city will raise the Belgian flag at city hall for three days to mourn the lives lost in Brussels, and the city of Gatineau has lowered its flag at city hall to half-mast.