Large-scale anti-trafficking operation in Namur: 20 suspects arrested for sexual exploitation
Around a hundred police officers conducted a coordinated operation in Wallonia and Brussels against a human trafficking network. 20 individuals were arrested and 16 raids resulted in the seizure of vehicles, cash and cannabis.
Large-scale anti-trafficking operation in Namur: 20 suspects arrested for sexual exploitation
A major operation took place on 10 June in the Namur region and the capital. Investigators from the federal judicial police, supported by colleagues from the integrated police, proceeded with the arrest of 20 suspects in a sexual exploitation case.
This coordinated action mobilised approximately a hundred officers in the field, reports La DH (dhnet.be). The raids, numbering 16, were executed simultaneously in several localities in Wallonia and Brussels.
The raids resulted in the seizure of six cars, approximately 50,000 euros in cash, and 3.6 kilograms of cannabis. Law enforcement also seized communication equipment and documentation.
Alongside the arrests, several administrative measures were taken. Three foreign nationals in irregular situations were taken to a closed centre. Another was notified to leave the national territory, with a ban on any return. Three other suspects were questioned by an investigating magistrate before being released subject to certain conditions.
The Namur prosecutor's office indicated that investigations are continuing to assess the true extent of this criminal network and identify possible connections with other organisations. The exploited persons were forced into prostitution.
This intervention demonstrates the determination of law enforcement services to tackle human trafficking networks, a scourge that still affects many victims in Belgium.
Source: DHnet