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28 January 2025

Radja Nainggolan Arrested Over Cocaine Trafficking Allegations

The former Belgian international faces serious charges as authorities investigate drug trafficking routes through Antwerp.

Radja Nainggolan, the former Belgian international footballer known for his impactful presence on the pitch, was arrested on January 27, 2025, as part of a sweeping investigation related to cocaine trafficking through Antwerp’s port.

The arrest, confirmed by the Brussels prosecutor’s office, followed multiple morning raids executed nationwide. Authorities are investigating claims of cocaine importation from South America to Europe, with the port of Antwerp serving as a major entry point. "The probe involves purported incidents of cocaine importation from South America to Europe, via the port of Antwerp, and its distribution within Belgium," stated the prosecutors.

Born on May 4, 1988, and raised in Antwerp, the 36-year-old midfielder recently came out of retirement to join Lokeren-Temse, a lower-tier club, making headlines for scoring on his debut just days before his arrest. Throughout his career, Nainggolan played for prominent clubs including Cagliari, Roma, and Inter Milan, and earned 30 caps for the Belgian national team, netting six goals.

On his arrest, law enforcement not only detained Nainggolan but also apprehended several other suspects. It is reported he might be one of the ringleaders of the alleged drug trafficking network. This has turned his recent public appearances—such as scoring against K. Lierse and returning to the Belgian Professional League—into stark contrasts to the serious legal troubles now facing him.

Meanwhile, Nainggolan's lawyer, Omar Souidi, has spoken out on his client's behalf, during which he stated: "He is a professional footballer, not a criminal," firmly denying any involvement of Nainggolan with drug trafficking activities. His lawyer added Nainggolan would remain in custody overnight as investigations continued.

The situation has become more pressing for Nainggolan and his club, Lokeren-Temse, issuing statements respecting the legal process and presumption of innocence. Notably, the club confirmed Nainggolan's absence from training following his arrest.

This incident follows troubling patterns within sports, with previous athletes facing severe consequences related to illicit activities. For example, last year, former Dutch football player Quincy Promes was sentenced to six years for involvement with cocaine smuggling, raising alarms about the potential hidden undercurrents within the sports arena.

Nainggolan's case is particularly alarming not only due to his past standing as one of Belgium's prominent footballers, but also because of the complex web of drug trafficking spanning continents. Authorities are expected to dig deep as they explore the links between this international drug trade and allegedly innocent appearances.

Nainggolan, whose career has spanned various European leagues, initially started his professional path with Plasencia and proceeded to make significant contributions to Serie A before fine-tuning his talents back to Belgium. Recently, he faced scrutiny, including reports about his use of electronic cigarettes mid-match, which led to previous suspensions.

Given the recent developments, many will certainly be watching to see how this legal and social saga will unravel. The footballing community, together with fans, must grapple with the fact of one of their own facing such serious allegations, forever altering the narrative surrounding Radja Nainggolan.

For the footballer, the immediate future appears murky, with continuing investigations possibly leading to significant legal ramifications and affecting his standing both on and off the pitch. The upcoming days will be pivotal, not merely for Nainggolan’s career, but for setting precedents about accountability within the sports world.