Major Investigation into Exploitation of South American Sex Workers in Belgium: 35 House Searches, 6 Arrests

Belgian authorities have dismantled an international human trafficking and sexual exploitation network that preyed on women from South America. The extensive operation, led by an investigating judge in Leuven, included 35 house searches across Belgium and two in Spain, resulting in the discovery of 67 potential victims and the arrest of six individuals.

The coordinated raids took place on June 3 and 4. Police revealed details of the investigation at a press conference. This operation was part of an international Joint Action Day (JAD), conducted in close collaboration with the Federal Police's Centrex Human Trafficking unit, various local police zones, and the Spanish Policia Nacional.

Authorities report that 10 people were initially apprehended, with six subsequently being detained. They face charges including pimping, human trafficking, and money laundering. The investigation, which commenced in 2025, suggests a structured network responsible for recruiting sex workers from South America.

These women were allegedly transported to Belgium via Spain and housed in numerous properties throughout the country. To evade law enforcement, the victims were reportedly moved between locations weekly. The organization allegedly fostered extreme financial dependency by charging the women exorbitant fees for accommodation, transportation, and work materials.