The Antwerp port has seen a sharp rise in drug-related arrests in 2025, with the maritime police already making 131 arrests linked to drug trafficking. This number surpasses last year’s total, highlighting a growing concern for law enforcement and the community. As of 2025-05-12 03:33:00, the majority of those arrested are either Dutch or Belgian nationals, but other nationalities, including Albanians and Moroccans, are also involved.
- Antwerp port police arrest 131 drug suspects
- Increasing minors involved, youngest only 13 years
- Criminal groups recruit vulnerable youth for risks
- Europol forms taskforce with Belgium, neighbors
- Justice minister proposes tougher gang penalties
- Youth detention rates rise amid drug crimes
Alarmingly, the arrested individuals are getting younger. The police report that 31 minors, some as young as 13, have been detained so far this year. Criminal gangs are deliberately recruiting vulnerable youths, using them for risky tasks in exchange for goods like smartphones. What drives these young people into such dangerous roles, and how aware are they of the consequences?
This troubling trend raises urgent questions about how Belgium can better protect its youth and dismantle these criminal networks. The following fast answer provides a concise overview of the situation in Antwerp and its wider implications.
Why are minors increasingly targeted by drug gangs? The answer lies in their vulnerability and the gangs’ tactics. These youngsters often don’t fully grasp the legal risks or dangers of working in the busy port area. The government is responding with new measures, but will they be enough?
- Younger offenders are used as low-risk operatives by criminal groups.
- Minors receive goods, not just money, as payment for their roles.
- Authorities plan stricter penalties for gangs exploiting youths.
- Cross-border cooperation with the Netherlands and other countries is improving.
Looking ahead, Belgium must continue to enhance collaboration between law enforcement, justice officials, and community programs to protect vulnerable youths and break the cycle of crime. How can society better support these young people before they fall deeper into criminal networks?
