Serge Muyters

With a distinguished career in law enforcement, spanning several decades, Chief Muyters has demonstrated exceptional leadership and a commitment to professional police services to meet both local and global challenges.

Muyters began his career as a police officer in 1989 and quickly rose through the ranks, assuming various strategic and leadership positions. His educational background includes a Masters Degree in Criminology and an Executive Masters Degree in Local Public Management, which have equipped him with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of modern policing.

As Chief of Police, Muyters has spearheaded significant reforms within the Antwerp Police Department, focusing on improving service delivery and cost efficiency. One of his notable achievements includes the development of specialized units such as the Mobile Division and the Arrest Unit, designed to enhance the department’s rapid response capabilities and to assist the local community policing units or patrol units when necessary. He also created a fully operational Intelligence Department to prevent and combat high level crimes such as terrorism and drug-related violence.  Over the years, his strategic vision and innovative approach have been instrumental in tackling critical issues from organized prostitution, organized crime, counterfeiting, and the recent drug-related crimes in the city center.

Muyters has always emphasized the importance of international collaboration. During his tenure as chief of police, the Antwerp Police Department has forged partnerships with global counterparts, including the New York Police Department, the Bask Police Force Ertzaintza, the Singapore Police Force, and the Rotterdam Police Department. These collaborations have allowed Antwerp to integrate international best practices, enhancing the department’s operational effectiveness.

His dedication to professional growth is evident in his commitment to training and development. Muyters has been a key figure in various educational and strategic bodies, including the Antwerp Police Academy Board and the Provincial Security Council. His leadership extends to his role as Vice President for Flanders on the Permanent Committee of the Local Police, where he influences nationwide police policy.

Throughout his career, Muyters has been a proponent of innovative approaches to policing. He introduced the FOCUS digital application, facilitating seamless information sharing among key stakeholders and established a unique recruitment process to attract diverse local talent. His efforts in managing public order, crowd control, and personnel well-being through initiatives like the ‘Boost’ health program, reflect his holistic approach to police leadership.

Serge Muyters’ vision for the future of policing involves leveraging international insights and fostering local partnerships to create a robust and responsive police force. His upcoming role as Vice President of Internation Affairs of the Global SHIELD Network marks a new chapter in his career, where he aims to further strengthen international cooperation in law enforcement.

A native of Antwerp, Serge Muyters continues to dedicate his career to enhancing community safety and advancing the standards of modern policing.