A former member of a well-known Flemish boys band and owner of a dance school in Diepenbeek is under investigation for sexual offences involving minors. On Sunday, 8 June 2025, the Limburg Regio-Hoofdstad police raided the dance school as part of an ongoing judicial inquiry.
- Owner of Diepenbeek dance school suspected
- Police raided dance school on June 8
- Former Flemish boysband member arrested
- Victims around 16 years old reported
- Four victims identified since 2016
- Suspect released under strict conditions
The suspect was arrested and later presented before the examining magistrate, according to the Limburg public prosecutor’s office. Victims, all around 16 years old, reportedly came into contact with the suspect through the dance school. How many complaints have been filed remains unclear, but four victims have come forward so far, with the possibility of more emerging.
What impact will this case have on local communities and the safety of youth in extracurricular activities? The investigation continues under strict conditions after the suspect’s conditional release, leaving many questions unanswered.
How does this case affect trust in youth institutions? It raises important concerns about safeguarding minors in Belgium’s extracurricular settings. Key points to consider include:
- Potential gaps in oversight within local dance schools and youth organisations
- The challenge of balancing public figures’ reputations with the need for transparent investigations
- The importance of reporting mechanisms for victims of abuse in community settings
As the investigation progresses, Belgian authorities and local organisations must strengthen child protection policies. Will this lead to stricter regulations and increased awareness to prevent future abuses? The coming months will be crucial for restoring trust and safeguarding young people.