In brief
Radja Nainggolan, the 36-year-old Belgian footballer, has been arrested by police in a cocaine trafficking investigation just days after coming out of retirement to play for Lokeren in the Belgian second division.
Belgian footballer Radja Nainggolan has been arrested in connection with a cocaine trafficking investigation, according to reports from the Brussels prosecutor's office. The 36-year-old midfielder was among several suspects taken into custody by Belgian authorities on Monday morning following extensive police raids throughout the country.The prosecutor's office released a statement indicating that the investigation revolves around the alleged importation of cocaine from South America to Europe, particularly through the port of Antwerp, where the drug is purportedly being redistributed within Belgium. While the details regarding the specifics of Nainggolan's involvement have not been disclosed, the timing of his arrest has raised eyebrows, as it follows only six days after he made a comeback from retirement to join Lokeren, a club competing in the Belgian second division.Nainggolan began his renewed football journey on a positive note, scoring during his debut match and helping his team secure a 1-1 draw against K. Lierse. Renowned for his vibrant playing career, the midfielder spent a significant part of his professional life in Italy with clubs like Roma and Inter Milan, also earning 30 caps for the Belgium national team between 2009 and 2018.As the investigation unfolds, the football community and fans alike are left to speculate on the implications this could have for Nainggolan's career and legacy in the sport.
