Former Belgian international Radja Nainggolan was arrested on Monday, January 27, 2025, in connection with a cocaine trafficking investigation involving the port of Antwerp.
The Brussels prosecutor’s office confirmed his arrest, along with several other suspects, during a series of police raids across Belgium.
In a statement, prosecutors explained, “The investigation concerns alleged facts of importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, via the port of Antwerp, and its redistribution in Belgium.”
Details about Nainggolan’s alleged role in the case have not been disclosed.
Nainggolan, 36, was born in Antwerp and recently came out of retirement to join Lokeren, a second-tier Belgian club. Just last weekend, he scored in his debut match, a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse.
The midfielder, known for his energetic playing style and heavily tattooed appearance, had a career that included stints at top Italian clubs like Roma, Inter Milan, and Cagliari. He also played 30 matches for the Belgian national team, scoring six goals.
Nainggolan returned to Belgium in 2021 to play for Royal Antwerp but left the club in 2023 following several controversies, including being suspended for smoking an electronic cigarette on the bench.
