The world of Belgian soccer is reeling from the shocking news that former national team midfielder Radja Nainggolan has been arrested in connection with a sprawling investigation into cocaine trafficking from South America to Europe. The combative ex-Roma and Inter Milan star, known for his hard-tackling style on the pitch and hard-partying lifestyle off it, was allegedly part of a criminal network smuggling huge quantities of cocaine through the Port of Antwerp.
Port of Antwerp: Europe’s Cocaine Gateway
Authorities say the cocaine originated in South America and was shipped to the Belgian port, a major entry point for drugs entering Europe due to its size and central location. The Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office announced that 30 raids were carried out on Monday as part of the operation, with Nainggolan the highest-profile individual detained so far.
This investigation once again confirms the enormous problem of cocaine trafficking through our ports. The criminals involved are increasingly ruthless and are not deterred by the heavy prison sentences they face if caught.
Spokesman for the Brussels Public Prosecutor’s Office
Nainggolan’s Troubled Career
The arrest marks a new low point for the troubled 34-year-old midfielder, who was once seen as one of the most dynamic box-to-box players in Europe. Nainggolan rose to prominence with Roma before earning a big-money move to Inter Milan in 2018. But his il ninja nickname and distinctive Mohawk haircut often drew more attention than his performances.
Nainggolan struggled to live up to his €38 million price tag at Inter and had his contract terminated in 2021 after a series of disciplinary issues. He returned to boyhood club Antwerp but was suspended indefinitely in October after being caught smoking an e-cigarette on the substitutes’ bench. The midfielder currently plays for Challenger Pro League club Lokeren-Temse.
Echoes of Quincy Promes Case
Nainggolan’s arrest has drawn comparisons to the case of Dutch international Quincy Promes, who was sentenced to six years in prison last year for his role in smuggling 1,360 kg of cocaine through the Port of Antwerp. The former Ajax and Sevilla forward was convicted in absentia by a Dutch court and remains a fugitive.
- Cocaine seizures at the Port of Antwerp have skyrocketed in recent years
- Over 100 tons of cocaine were intercepted at the port in 2022, a new record
Belgian authorities say South American drug cartels are increasingly viewing the country as an attractive gateway to the European market. In addition to its major ports, Belgium’s central location and excellent transport links to the Netherlands, France and Germany make it a key distribution hub for cocaine traffickers.
Presumption of Innocence
As the investigation continues, Nainggolan will likely face tough questions about how a millionaire athlete allegedly became entangled with international drug smugglers. His club Lokeren-Temse said the player was absent from training on Monday but stressed the importance of presuming innocence at this stage.
We are aware of the reports concerning Radja Nainggolan. The club always operates on the principle of ‘innocent until proven guilty’ and as such we will be making no further comment at this time.
Statement from Lokeren-Temse
If convicted, Nainggolan faces the possibility of a lengthy prison sentence and would become the latest soccer star to have thrown away a promising career by getting mixed up in the dangerous world of drug trafficking. As fans await more details, the case serves as a stark reminder of the fragile boundary between sporting glory and criminal disgrace.
