Twelve arrested in Haren prison corruption probe

Brussels prosecutors have arrested twelve people in a major investigation into alleged corruption at Haren prison. The arrests followed a series of raids on Tuesday, both inside and outside the facility.

Those detained include several prison officers suspected of trafficking drugs within the prison, as well as other staff members and inmates believed to have continued criminal activities from their cells.

In a statement, the Brussels prosecutor’s office said tackling public sector corruption remains a top priority, with particular focus on the city’s penitentiary institutions.

“Corruption in prisons poses a direct threat to public safety and the integrity of the justice system”

“Corruption in prisons poses a direct threat to public safety and the integrity of the justice system,” the office noted. “It undermines security inside facilities and fuels illegal trade both within and beyond prison walls.”

The investigation is ongoing.

^{© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK}