Members of the Federal Judicial Police (FGP) of Limburg have thwarted a kidnapping in Miami, USA, by arresting a 19-year-old man from Maasmechelen.
The man was detained on Monday, 13 January, while four other suspects were simultaneously arrested in the United States. The role of the Maasmechelen resident is currently under investigation, the Limburg prosecutor’s office announced on Wednesday.
During an ongoing judicial investigation, FGP Limburg raided a house in Maasmechelen on 13 January. A 19-year-old man was taken into custody and later detained by the investigating judge, with his detention now confirmed by the court.
This operation was the outcome of international collaboration between FGP Limburg and the FBI. At the time of the raid in Maasmechelen, the FBI also arrested four suspects in the US, who were allegedly en route to Miami to kidnap someone for ransom.
Two firearms were found in their vehicle. The suspects were reportedly in contact with the Maasmechelen man via the digital platform Telegram. FGP Limburg is further investigating his involvement in the case.
Prosecutors and police note an increase in crimes committed using digital tools.
"This makes offenders feel untouchable. They believe their involvement in crimes will fly under the radar, leading to lighter sentences if prosecuted," said Anna Degraen, the spokesperson for the Limburg prosecutor’s office.
"Police and prosecutors want to emphasise that criminal acts in a digital context are equally subject to prosecution and severe penalties."
