In an investigation into large-scale cannabis trafficking from the United States 16 properties were searched and 13 suspects were arrested earlier this week. The Brussels Prosecutor’s Office reports that 8 of those detained have been formally arrested and 2 of these have already been charged.
The investigation began after two pallets of marijuana from the United States were intercepted. Detectives from the Federal Judicial Police (FJP) then uncovered a structured network that is allegedly involved in international drug trafficking. One of the key figures in the drug trafficking gang is currently believed to be in the United Arab Emirates.
In a previous operation linked to the case 15 people were detained and 27 properties were searched. 5 of those detained were formally arrested. International arrest warrants were issued for several other suspects. 1 of them has since been arrested in France.
On Tuesday, 16 properties were searched and 13 suspects detained. Drugs, vehicles and luxury goods were also searched. 8 of those detained were formally arrested. 2 of them have since been charged.
In a statement, the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office said that “The investigation also appears to reveal the existence of a money laundering mechanism designed to conceal the profits from criminal activities”. The prosecutor’s office added that “The investigation is continuing.”