Belgian authorities have launched a major investigation into the alleged rape and sexual assault of at least 41 women in the north-western city of Kortrijk, where their drinks are believed to have been spiked with drugs, including ketamine.
Three bar managers have been identified as prime suspects, prosecutors confirmed on Thursday. Officials suspect that the perpetrators mixed the powerful sedative into victims’ beverages, rendering them incapacitated before carrying out the attacks.
Ketamine, a general anaesthetic often used recreationally for its hallucinogenic effects, was reportedly used to impair the victims, leaving them vulnerable to assault.
Bar Managers Under Investigation
Authorities say the main suspects operated bars where the alleged spiking incidents took place between December 2021 and December 2024. Investigators believe the three men discussed the attacks among themselves and deliberately targeted their victims.
“There are already 41 victims identified for the period between December 2021 to December 2024, and the investigation continues to potentially identify others,” said Griet De Prest, a spokesman for the Western Flanders public prosecutor’s office.
One of the suspects has been arrested, while a second is set to appear before a judge. The third suspect was released following a series of arrests carried out earlier this week, officials confirmed.
The men are being investigated for multiple charges, including rape, sexual assault, and the illegal administration of harmful substances.
A Disturbing Pattern of Abuse
Tom Janssens, another spokesman for the prosecutor’s office, provided chilling details about how the victims were targeted.
“The young women were offered shots of alcohol, often with an amaretto flavour, after which they woke up the next morning, groggy in an unknown bed or in their own bed, with clear evidence of sexual abuse,” Janssens told Flemish public television VRT.
The authorities have urged other potential victims to come forward, as the investigation remains ongoing. Officials fear that there could be more women affected by this alarming pattern of abuse.
Government Response and Call for Action
Belgium’s Interior Minister, Bernard Quintin, condemned the alleged attacks as “unacceptable” and raised concerns over the accessibility of ketamine.
“If the drug can be obtained easily and cheaply, it becomes easier to commit crimes,” Quintin stated, calling for stricter regulations on the sale and distribution of such substances.
The minister also emphasised the need for greater safety measures in nightlife establishments, stressing that women must be able to go out without fear of falling victim to such crimes.
“Women must be able to go out safely, wherever they want, whenever they want,” he added.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Proceedings
As Belgian authorities continue their probe, they are working to ensure justice for the victims while also evaluating potential measures to prevent similar crimes in the future.
The scandal has sparked outrage across the country, reigniting discussions about drink-spiking prevention and the importance of safeguarding women in public spaces.
The prosecutor’s office has urged anyone with relevant information to come forward as investigators work to determine the full extent of the crimes. The case is expected to unfold further as legal proceedings continue against the suspects.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
