Security services warn of rising organised crime in Limburg

Police and prosecutors in the Belgian province of Limburg say organised crime is growing rapidly. Turkish mafia groups are now joining existing Italian criminal networks in the region.

The warning came after a major investigation into the Turkish Sahin clan led to 18 arrests across Flanders. Seven men, aged between 22 and 40, remain in custody.

Investigators carried out 26 raids in Limburg, East Flanders, Flemish Brabant and Brussels. During the searches, officers seized large amounts of cash, luxury watches, six vehicles and several weapons, including a Kalashnikov rifle, a crossbow and knives.

The investigation began in 2025 after several violent incidents linked to the Turkish community in Limburg. Prosecutors say the criminal organisation is suspected of money laundering, extortion, threats and violent attacks. Authorities also believe the group used a “hit squad” of young men to carry out violent jobs.

Officials say police and courts in Limburg are struggling to cope because of staff and funding shortages. Limburg prosecutor Frank Bleyen said the justice system was not designed for today’s level of organised crime.

Around 35,000 criminal cases, 30,000 traffic cases and 12,000 youth cases were handled last year by just 36 magistrates, with some positions still unfilled.

Police director Sophie Lever said Limburg’s security problems should not be overlooked in favour of larger cities such as Antwerp and Brussels. Authorities are now calling for more police officers, prosecutors and court staff to tackle the growing threat.

^{#FlandersNewsService | The items seized during searches carried out as part of an investigation into a Turkish mafia clan operating in Lumburg © BELGA PHOTO MARC DIRIX}