Vught, Netherlands – Dutch authorities have transferred notorious criminal figure Ridouan Taghi to a less secure section of the high-security prison in Vught, where he is now housed with his accomplice and criminal kingpin Willem Holleeder, according to a report by NOS. The move has raised eyebrows, given the usual practice of keeping co-suspects separated during ongoing trials.
Taghi, often described as the Netherlands’ most dangerous criminal, was moved at the end of July to the same section that also houses his right-hand man, Saïd R., and Holleeder, a notorious figure in Dutch criminal circles. This development comes just weeks after Taghi’s son, Faissal Taghi, was extradited from Dubai to the Netherlands, suspected of continuing his father’s criminal network.
The transfer to a less secure cell is surprising, as it deviates from the standard protocol of the Public Prosecution Service (OM), which typically advises keeping co-suspects apart to prevent collusion and ensure a fair trial. Both Taghi and Saïd R. are appealing their life sentences handed down in February in the Marengo trial, which involved six assassinations, four attempted killings, and plans to murder several others.
The Marengo trial was one of the largest and most complex criminal cases in Dutch history. In addition to Taghi, Saïd R., and Mario R., who were sentenced to life in prison, another 14 suspects received sentences ranging from 21 months to 27 years. The case has captivated the nation, highlighting the deep roots of organized crime in the Netherlands.
The Vught prison had specifically constructed an extra wing, E1, for Taghi to serve his sentence in complete isolation from other prisoners. The decision to transfer him to a less secure section now, with his accomplice and another high-profile criminal, has sparked speculation about the rationale behind it.
One possible explanation is the recent arrival of Faissal Taghi. The 23-year-old was extradited from Dubai at the end of July and is suspected of taking over his father’s criminal operations. authorities may have decided to move Ridouan Taghi to a less secure cell to monitor interactions between father and son, which could provide valuable intelligence for ongoing investigations.
However, the move also raises concerns about the safety and security of the prison. Taghi’s reputation as a feared crime boss, combined with his connections to other high-profile criminals, could pose a significant risk to the prison environment. The proximity of his accomplice and the notorious Holleeder could potentially facilitate communication and coordination of criminal activities, despite the strict security measures in place.
The decision to house Taghi with Holleeder, who has been involved in numerous high-profile criminal cases, including the notorious Liquidatieoorlog (Liquidation War) in the 1990s, is particularly surprising. Holleeder’s influence and connections in the criminal underworld could provide Taghi with opportunities to maintain his criminal network from behind bars.
Despite the concerns, authorities have not commented on the reasoning behind the transfer. The OM and prison officials are likely to face questions about the decision, especially given the sensitivity of the case and the high profile of the individuals involved.
As the appeal process continues, the eyes of the Dutch public remain fixed on the developments in the case. The transfer of Ridouan Taghi to a less secure cell, housed with his accomplice and a criminal kingpin, is a significant development that will undoubtedly fuel speculation and scrutiny in the coming months.
The NL Times will continue to follow this story and provide updates as they become available.
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