Former Belgian Football Star Radja Nainggolan Arrested in Cocaine Trafficking Investigation
Radja Nainggolan, the former Belgian international football player, was taken into custody on Monday as part of an investigation related to cocaine trafficking through the port of Antwerp, according to the Brussels prosecutor’s office.
Law enforcement apprehended several suspects, including Nainggolan, following a series of morning raids conducted nationwide.
According to a statement released by the prosecutors, the probe is centered around alleged incidents of cocaine importation from South America to Europe, through the port of Antwerp, and its subsequent distribution within Belgium.
Nainggolan, aged 36, who was born in Antwerp, recently emerged from retirement to join a lower-tier Belgian team, marking a final chapter in his illustrious career. He represented the national squad 30 times, scoring six goals during his international tenure.
Having previously played for Italian clubs such as Cagliari, Inter Milan, and Roma, Nainggolan had been without a club since last summer before recently signing with Belgian second-division team Lokeren.
His debut for Lokeren saw him find the back of the net in a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse at home over the weekend. In the summer of 2021, he made a return to Belgium from Italy to play for Royal Antwerp.
A few months ago, Belgian media reported that Nainggolan was suspended for using an electronic cigarette while sitting on the bench during a match.
