Radja Nainggolan, the former Belgium international and Serie A standout, has been arrested in Belgium as part of a major investigation into cocaine trafficking. The 36-year-old, who recently returned to professional football with a second-tier Belgian club, finds himself at the center of a high-profile criminal case.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
Nainggolan was detained on Monday morning during police raids carried out across Belgium. The operation involved 30 searches in Antwerp and Brussels, leading to the discovery of 2.7 kilograms of cocaine, luxury goods valued at over €500,000, and cash exceeding €350,000.
According to the Brussels public prosecutor’s office, the investigation focuses on cocaine shipments allegedly imported from South America through Antwerp’s shipping ports. Alongside Nainggolan, 16 other individuals have been arrested in connection with the case.
Nainggolan’s Club Responds to the Arrest
Radja Nainggolan, who recently joined Belgian second-tier club Lokeren, was notably absent from training on Monday. Lokeren released a statement acknowledging the reports of his arrest but emphasized the presumption of innocence.
“The club respects the presumption of innocence and therefore cannot comment further,” the statement read. “We can only confirm that the player was absent from training this morning. The club will continue to focus on tomorrow’s crucial league match against KAS Eupen. Radja Nainggolan is not eligible to play in that match anyway.”
Radja Nainggolan’s Football Career
Once regarded as one of the finest midfielders in Serie A, Nainggolan spent four seasons at Roma between 2014 and 2018, earning a spot in the Serie A Team of the Year in each of those campaigns. He later joined Inter Milan but struggled to replicate his earlier success.
After a period of absence from professional football, Nainggolan made a comeback, signing for Lokeren. He has also been capped 30 times for the Belgian national team, though he has not represented his country since 2017.
His career highlights include winning the Serie A title with Inter in the 2020/21 season and the Belgian Pro League title in 2022/23.
What Do You Think?
Radja Nainggolan’s arrest has shocked football fans around the world. What are your thoughts on this development? Can a player’s off-field issues overshadow their on-field achievements? Share your opinions in the comments section below!
