One of the five suspects arrested in connection with the numerous cases of drink spiking targeting women in the party district in Kortrijk has been charged, the West Flanders Public Prosecutor’s Office confirmed on Thursday.
The suspects are connected to spiking the drinks at least 41 female victims over a period from December 2021 to December 2024. "The modus operandi shows strong similarities: the victims were given a drink, after which they woke up the next morning with no recollection," emphasised the prosecutor’s office.
The individual who has been charged is a bar owner, as are two other suspects. Another suspect is due to appear before the investigating judge on Thursday afternoon.
One of the establishments went bankrupt last year, and the man placed under arrest on Thursday morning is the owner of one of the neighbouring establishments. He recently announced on social media that he was ceasing his activities for personal reasons. One of the other café owners was released after police questioning.
According to the public prosecutor, this is not a criminal organisation, but there is evidence of a network. They are said to have been in contact with each other and to have exchanged experiences. They are suspected of rape, violating sexual integrity and the deliberate administration of harmful substances, resulting in illness or disability.
