NL Times Exclusive
Breda, Netherlands – September 12, 2024 – A former professional footballer, Ronnie S., is currently under investigation for trafficking 2,217 kilograms of cocaine and money laundering, according to the Public Prosecution Service (OM). The allegations were presented in a Breda courtroom on Thursday, though the suspect was absent from the hearing.
The Investigation
Ronnie S., 40, a former player for NAC Breda and FC Twente, was arrested in June 2021, along with several family members, on suspicion of drug trafficking and money laundering. The police’s initial suspicions were based on intercepted encrypted conversations among criminals using the chat service SKY ECC.
Following the arrests, police conducted searches across six homes and a camper van, seizing 100,000 euros in cash, bank accounts, luxury watches, vehicles, jewelry, fitness equipment, three homes, and a yacht. Ronnie S., hailing from Eindhoven, remains the sole family member in pre-trial detention. His parents, girlfriend, and brother are also suspects in the case.
Legal Proceedings and Security Concerns
The suspect’s attorney argued in court that Ronnie S. is being threatened, with two attacks on his home while his children were asleep. The lawyer requested the court to end S.’s pre-trial detention, citing the lengthy time expected for the trial and the distant timeline of the suspicions. However, the prosecutor rejected this request, expressing concerns that the suspect might flee to Dubai, where his brother currently resides, in case of conviction.
The prosecutor emphasized the significant quantity of drugs involved, suggesting Ronnie S. was a key player in the drug world. The next hearing in the case is scheduled for November 28, but the trial date remains uncertain. Ronnie S. is expected to be tried alongside his brother, who is still at large.
Ronnie S.’s Football Career
Before his alleged criminal activities, Ronnie S. had a notable football career. He played for NAC Breda until 2016 and won the Dutch Eredivisie title with FC Twente in 2010. He also had spells at Standard Liege in Belgium and Wigan Athletic in England.
Reporting by ANP
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