In brief
The arrest of former international midfielder Radja Nainggolan raises concerns over a cocaine trafficking ring in Belgium.
Belgium's football scene is facing a shocking twist as former international midfielder Radja Nainggolan, 36, has been apprehended in connection with a cocaine trafficking investigation. Nainggolan was one of multiple suspects detained by Belgian authorities during simultaneous raids on Monday morning, highlighting the growing concern over drug importation in the region. According to a statement from the Brussels prosecutor's office, the investigation pertains to alleged operations involving the import of cocaine from South America, specifically targeting the port of Antwerp, with subsequent distribution within Belgium. Details surrounding the investigations remain scant, as officials have not disclosed further specifics to the public. This troubling news arrives only a week after Nainggolan made headlines by coming out of retirement to sign with Lokeren, a team in Belgium's second division. His debut match saw him score a goal to secure a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse, reigniting his football career after a brief hiatus. The midfielder, hailing from Antwerp, has had a storied career primarily in Italy, having played for prestigious clubs such as Roma and Inter Milan. He also represented the Belgium national team, accumulating 30 caps from 2009 to 2018. As this investigation unfolds, it poses an unsettling contrast to the football scene, particularly around Nainggolan's recent return to the game.
