21 arrested over international drug trafficking network using Brussels Airport

Belgian and French authorities have arrested 21 people following a major investigation into an international drug trafficking network that allegedly used Brussels Airport to smuggle cocaine and cannabis.

The investigation began in February 2025 after police discovered sports bags containing around 30 kilograms of cocaine from a flight arriving from Cancún, Mexico. Investigators subsequently identified a man who had bought a flight ticket but had no intention of travelling. Instead, the ticket gave him access to the airport’s baggage hall, where he allegedly collected suitcases containing drugs.

According to investigators, the network recruited so-called “extractors” mainly through social media. Drug couriers would travel to Brussels with suitcases containing narcotics but would leave the luggage behind after arrival. Individuals with cheap, last-minute flight tickets would then enter the baggage hall and collect the suitcases without actually boarding a flight.

Further seizures included around 30 kilograms of cannabis from a suitcase arriving from Canada and approximately 55 kilograms of cocaine found in two suitcases.

Investigators later discovered that the network had allegedly recruited airport employees, who removed drugs from suitcases before they reached the baggage carousel. The empty luggage would then continue to the baggage hall, while the drugs were taken out of the airport separately.

The operation on 30 September resulted in 19 arrests and 21 searches in Belgium, while two people were arrested and six searches carried out in France. Authorities seized more than €57,000 in cash, cryptocurrency, eight vehicles, jewellery and a luxury watch, as well as a money-counting machine and several weapons.

The investigation, involving Belgian, French and Dutch authorities together with Europol and Eurojust, is continuing.