Over 30 Afghan Men on Trial in Belgium Over Alleged Human Smuggling
Over 30 Afghan Men on Trial in Belgium Over Alleged Human Smuggling
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Belgian prosecutors are seeking more than 230 years in prison for 31 Afghan men accused of running an international human-smuggling network linked to at least 615 victims since 2017.
The trial of 31 Afghan men accused of involvement in a large-scale human-smuggling operation has begun in Antwerp, Belgium, with prosecutors seeking lengthy prison sentences and the confiscation of millions of euros in alleged criminal proceeds.
Belgian broadcaster VRT reported on Monday, October 26, that the suspects allegedly operated on TikTok under the names “313” and “313 Criminal.” Prosecutors say the network transported migrants through dangerous routes across Europe and subjected some victims to violence, confinement and sexual abuse. The allegations have yet to be established by the court.
According to Belgian media reports, prosecutors are seeking a combined prison sentence of more than 230 years for the 31 defendants. They have also requested the confiscation of more than €3 million in alleged criminal proceeds.
Three men identified by prosecutors as leaders of the network face requests for sentences of up to 15 years each. The prosecution alleges that the organisation had a clear hierarchy and was directed by leaders operating from Afghanistan’s Baghlan province, where some of the proceeds were allegedly transferred.
Investigators believe the network has been active since 2017, although the formal investigation that led to the current proceedings began in October 2023, according to earlier reporting by Belga News Agency.
Prosecutors say the network arranged journeys for migrants seeking to reach Western Europe, including routes to the United Kingdom, Austria and Germany.
Most of the defendants are currently under electronic monitoring or have been released on bail, while a smaller number remain in detention and attend court from prison, according to Belgian media reports.
The court is expected to issue its ruling no earlier than December. Until a verdict is delivered, all 31 defendants are presumed innocent under the law.
