The investigation began in June 2017 following a police raid at a known prostitution address near Antwerp’s central station, where two victims were interviewed. Early findings suggested they had been forced by an organised network to work in multiple locations across Belgium.

Over several years, investigators pieced together the full scope of the network, which is believed to have exploited more than 1.000 women. Using phone and internet data analysis, victim testimonies, numerous raids, anonymous tips, and cooperation with Europol, the inquiry uncovered the extensive trafficking routes, the locations where victims were held, and the methods the gang used to recruit clients and launder money.

In February 2023, federal police arrested 25 suspects in several cities, including Brussels, Antwerp, Charleroi, Leuven, and even Barcelona. Further investigation increased the number of accused to 38, most of whom are currently released under judicial conditions.

Victims, mostly recruited from China, were reportedly forced to surrender their passports, isolated from outside contact, and frequently moved to prevent escape or detection. Key members of the network allegedly operated phone centres and rented entire apartment blocks in Brussels, where victims were compelled to provide sexual services.

Thirty-eight members of the network have now been formally referred to the correctional court to face multiple charges. The Federal Migration Centre, Myria, joined the case as a civil party, underscoring the case’s gravity and the importance of victim representation. The federal prosecutor aims to confiscate hundreds of thousands of euros in criminal proceeds and pursue charges linked to the murder of one victim in 2023.

For further details, please contact Myria.