Ex-AS Roma Player Detained in Cocaine Trafficking Operation

Belgian footballer Radja Nainggolan, a former star for AS Roma and Inter Milan, has been arrested in connection with a cocaine trafficking investigation. The 36-year-old midfielder was taken into custody on Monday morning as part of a large-scale operation carried out by Belgian authorities, which included multiple raids across the country.

The investigation centers around allegations of cocaine being imported from South America into Europe through the port of Antwerp. Once in Europe, the drugs were allegedly being redistributed within Belgium. The Brussels prosecutor’s office confirmed the arrest, though few details about the case have been released to the public. Authorities have yet to provide additional information regarding the specific charges or the individuals involved in the trafficking ring.

Nainggolan’s arrest comes just days after he made his return to professional football. After announcing his retirement in 2022, the Belgian international surprised many by rejoining the game with Lokeren, a team in the Belgian second division. In his first match back, Nainggolan made an immediate impact by scoring in a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse, securing a point for his new club. His decision to return to the pitch after a brief hiatus was widely celebrated by fans, marking a potential new chapter in his career.

Born in Antwerp, Nainggolan had an illustrious football career, playing for several major clubs in Italy. He spent the majority of his career at AS Roma, where he became one of the club’s standout players. Later, he joined Inter Milan, continuing to make his mark in Serie A. Nainggolan was also a key member of the Belgium national team, earning 30 caps between 2009 and 2018. His physical style of play, aggressive tackling, and leadership in midfield made him a fan favorite and one of Belgium’s most well-known footballers during his peak years.

The arrest of Nainggolan has shocked the football community, with many expressing surprise given his reputation both on and off the field. The investigation is ongoing, and authorities are working to uncover the full extent of the drug trafficking network. Nainggolan’s arrest adds to a series of high-profile cases of athletes being involved in criminal activities, sparking concerns over the off-field behavior of prominent sports figures.

As the investigation continues, Nainggolan’s future, both in football and beyond, remains uncertain.