Brussels, Oct 13 (IANS): App-based cab service provider Uber announced on Tuesday that it will terminate its UberPop ride-sharing service in the Belgian capital of Brussels on Wednesday.

The decision comes after a commercial court here ruled on September 24 that UberPop was breaking the law by having unlicensed drivers transport customers, Xinhua news agency reported.

Uber had until October 19 to comply with the ban or face heavy fines of 10,000 euros (about $11,380) each time a driver was caught by police.

"Although this (closure) was inevitable following a recent court order, stopping UberPop is very disappointing and impacts you and tens of thousands of people in Brussels who rely on Uber's affordable services," Uber said.

Uber said its more expensive UberX service, which uses professional licensed drivers, would continue operating in Brussels.

The court order banning UberPop came after licensed Brussels taxi firm Les Taxis Verts filed a complaint.

Taxi drivers from across Belgium and several other European countries gathered in Brussels last month to protest against Uber.