13 suspects arrested in investigation into cannabis trafficking from US
In an investigation into large-scale cannabis trafficking from the United States, thirteen suspects were arrested during sixteen searches on Tuesday, according to the Brussels public prosecutor's office. Eight of those arrested were placed under arrest warrants and two were charged but released under conditions.
The investigation began after two pallets of marijuana originating from the United States were intercepted. Investigators from the Federal Judicial Police (FJP) then uncovered a structured network allegedly involved in international drug trafficking, one of whose key figures is currently believed to be in the United Arab Emirates.
During a first intervention phase in the case, in November 2025, fifteen people were already arrested during 27 searches, five of whom were placed under arrest warrants. Several others are currently the subject of international arrest warrants. One of them has in the meantime been arrested in France.
On Tuesday, a second series of sixteen searches was carried out, during which thirteen suspects were arrested, and narcotics, vehicles and luxury goods were seized. Eight people were placed under arrest warrants and two were charged but released under conditions.
“The investigation also appears to reveal the existence of a money laundering mechanism designed to conceal the profits from criminal activities,” the public prosecutor's office stated. “The investigation is continuing.”
Illustration © BELGA PHOTO ERIC LALMAND
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