DHAKA: A series of attacks has struck Brussels airport and the metro system, causing at least 13 deaths.

Belgian media say, reports the BBC.

Two blasts tore through the departures area of Zaventem airport shortly after 08:00 local time (07:00 GMT).

An hour later, explosions hit Maalbeek metro station, close to the EU institutions. The metro system and airport have both been closed.

The attacks come four days after Salah Abdeslam, the main suspect in the Paris attacks, was captured in Brussels.

The Belgian government has confirmed casualties at the airport but has given no numbers. The cause of the explosions is unknown.

The whole metro system has been closed. Belgium has now raised its terror threat to its highest level.

Emergency services are clearing the airport completely. Belgium’s Het Laatste Nieuws reports that more bombs have been found.

The Belga news agency reports that shots were fired and shouts in Arabic were heard before the two explosions.

BDST: 1509 HRS, MAR 22, 2016
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** Several injured after two explosions at Brussels Airport