New Delhi: Radja Nainggolan, the 36-year-old former Belgium international, has found himself at the centre of a major drug trafficking investigation. The midfielder, who recently made a surprise return to football after a year-long absence, was arrested by Belgian police on Monday as part of an ongoing probe into the importation and distribution of cocaine in Europe. According to reports from the Brussels prosecutor’s office, Nainggolan’s arrest is linked to an operation involving the smuggling of cocaine from South America through the port of Antwerp.
Authorities have confirmed that the footballer is one of several suspects detained during a series of coordinated raids across the country, targeting locations primarily in Antwerp and Brussels.
The investigation, which has yet to release full details, suggests that the cocaine smuggling network is operating within Belgium, using Antwerp as a key entry point. Police say that further interrogations are underway, but at this time, no additional information has been disclosed. Nainggolan’s arrest has shocked fans, particularly after he had just come out of retirement to join Belgian second-tier side Lokeren.
Radja Nainggolan arrested in a massive police raid after just returning to professional football
Radja Nainggolan has been arrested and suspected of being involved in the distribution of cocaine in Belgium.
His arrest is part of a wider investigation into organized crime. Interrogation is still ongoing.
— Siavoush Fallahi (@SiavoushF) January 27, 2025
Nainggolan’s arrest comes just days after he made his return to Belgian football, signing with Lokeren-Temse. His debut for the club last weekend was marked by a memorable goal, rescuing a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse. Known for his fiery personality both on and off the pitch, Nainggolan’s move back to Belgium appeared to be a fresh start in his career. However, his involvement in this cocaine trafficking investigation now casts a shadow over his return.
The investigation has seen police raid 30 properties, focusing on the province of Antwerp and the capital, Brussels. While Nainggolan’s specific involvement remains unclear, his business dealings and connections to figures with previous links to the drug trade have raised questions. His lawyer has confirmed he is providing legal support, and Lokeren has stated that Nainggolan will miss training and upcoming matches due to the ongoing legal proceedings.
Radja Nainggolan was arrested in Belgium as part of a cocaine trafficking investigation. Authorities suspect the drug was imported via Antwerp, with Nainggolan involved in the distribution. Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
