Radja Nainggolan arrested in connection with cocaine trafficking investigation

Former Belgian international and current Lokeren-Temse midfielder Radja Nainggolan has been arrested as part of an investigation into cocaine trafficking from South America to Europe, according to a source close to the case.

The Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office revealed that the cocaine was allegedly smuggled through the Port of Antwerp. As part of the investigation, authorities conducted 30 house searches on Monday. While the official statement followed Belgian legal practice by identifying the suspect only by initials and profession, local media reported Nainggolan's involvement.

Nainggolan’s lawyer, Omar Souidi, denied the allegations, stating, “My client is a professional footballer, not a criminal.” He confirmed that Nainggolan would remain in custody overnight, with further questioning by the examining magistrate scheduled for Tuesday morning.

Local reports also indicated that around a dozen individuals have been arrested in connection with the probe.

Lokeren-Temse, Nainggolan’s club, confirmed his absence from training on Monday but refrained from making any detailed comments. In their statement, they emphasized respect for the presumption of innocence. Meanwhile, Nainggolan's management team has not responded to requests for comment.

The case bears resemblance to last year’s high-profile sentencing of former Dutch international Quincy Promes. Promes received a six-year prison sentence in absentia for his involvement in smuggling 1,360 kg (3,000 pounds) of cocaine through the Belgian port to the Netherlands in 2020.

This investigation adds another layer to the ongoing scrutiny of European footballers linked to criminal activities, highlighting the broader issues surrounding drug trafficking networks operating through major European ports.

SportsLigue