Case Relocated for Security Reasons
Proceedings have opened in Brussels against Flor Bressers, who prosecutors describe as a central figure in a multi-billion-euro drug enterprise. The trial, initially set for Bruges, was transferred to the heavily guarded Justitia facility in the capital due to concerns over safety. Authorities say the 30 defendants collectively amassed around €500m through large-scale cocaine imports into Europe.
Profits Tied to Large Shipments
Investigators allege that Bressers collected approximately €230m from ten deliveries, while fellow suspect Sérgio Roberto de Carvalho is accused of taking €200m. The figures, prosecutors claim, reflect the enormous profits generated by repeated smuggling operations routed through European ports.
Seizures and Arrests Across Borders
The inquiry was triggered by the 2020 interception of 3.2 tonnes of cocaine concealed in manganese ore at Rotterdam’s port. Bressers was taken into custody in Zurich in February 2022 and extradited to Belgium later that year. De Carvalho was captured in Hungary in 2023. The defendants include a Dutch lawyer and an ex-banker from London, who are accused of helping to launder proceeds. Defence lawyers have signaled they will contest both the profit calculations and the alleged leadership roles attributed to their clients.
