Overview
- Belgian authorities say the infant figure was taken from the Grand-Place nativity late Friday or early Saturday.
- The cloth figures, designed by Victoria‑Maria Geyer with faceless patchwork to reflect varied skin tones, had drawn sharp criticism from politicians and the public.
- Organizers replaced the baby Jesus and said staff will keep a closer watch, with no additional security measures announced.
- Delphine Romanus of Brussels Major Events said beheading reports were false, noting prior instances of theft or damage to nativity figures.
- The installation followed a city call for proposals with approval from St. Michael and St. Gudula Cathedral, and Mayor Philippe Close has said he expects it to remain for up to five years.