In a major human smuggling case, prosecutors at the Antwerp correctional court have demanded a combined total of 246 years in prison against 31 suspected members of the Afghan network '313 Criminal'. The group illegally moved hundreds of migrants across borders while subjecting them to systematic violence, reports Het Laatste Nieuws.
Nightly border crossings and abuse
Investigators established that the gang smuggled between 100 and 150 people across borders each night, affecting more than 600 documented victims. Migrants unable to pay promptly were targeted with severe physical abuse and sexual assault, according to the prosecution.
“Wie niet tijdig betaalde, werd geslagen of misbruikt.”
As reported by HLN, this account highlights the extreme coercion used by the gang to extort money from vulnerable individuals during transit.
Heavy financial forfeitures sought in Antwerp
Beyond lengthy prison terms, prosecutors are seeking the confiscation of illicit profits running into millions of euros against the 31 defendants. The case illustrates the ongoing role of international networks moving people through Belgium.
Defence arguments will be heard before the Antwerp correctional court in the coming sessions before a final judgment is rendered.
