Footballer Star Among 16 Arrested in Drug Trafficking Case
Belgian former international footballer Radja Nainggolan has been arrested as part of a major investigation into cocaine trafficking through the port of Antwerp, the Brussels prosecutor’s office confirmed on Monday.
Authorities carried out coordinated morning raids across the country, detaining 16 suspects, including the 36-year-old footballer.
“The investigation focuses on alleged cocaine importation from South America to Europe, using the port of Antwerp as a transit hub, and its subsequent distribution in Belgium,” prosecutors detailed in a statement.
During the operation, police confiscated 2.7 kilos of cocaine, approximately half a million euros in cash, gold coins, jewelry, and high-end watches, with two of the watches valued at €360,000 each. They also seized firearms, bulletproof vests, and 14 vehicles.
Nainggolan, who was born in Antwerp, recently came out of retirement to join Belgian second-tier club Lokeren, marking a fresh chapter in his career. He scored on his debut over the weekend in a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse.
Once a prominent midfielder with stints at Roma, Inter Milan, and Cagliari in Italy, Nainggolan had been without a club since the summer before signing with Lokeren. However, his career has not been without controversy, including a suspension in 2022 for smoking an electronic cigarette on the bench during his time at Royal Antwerp.
Now, Nainggolan finds himself facing allegations that could overshadow his football legacy.
ALSO READ ; CS Kabogo Dismisses Claims of Political Appointment After Ruto’s Uhuru Visit
Footballer Star Among 16 Arrested in Drug Trafficking Case
