Othman El Ballouti, a major Belgian drug trafficker, was extradited from Dubai to Belgium on July 13, 2025, along with two other traffickers, Giorgi Faes and Mathias Akyazili, under police escort.

This extradition exemplifies the growing cooperation between Belgium and the UAE, which has been strengthened by a treaty signed in December 2021 and implemented in November 2022.

The move highlights a broader commitment to fighting international crime through diplomatic and legal channels, reinforcing the rule of law.

Belgium has appointed a special magistrate to enhance legal cooperation with the UAE, increasing the chances of successful extradition requests.

Belgian Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden stressed that extraditions are crucial to prevent traffickers from enjoying luxury lifestyles in countries without extradition treaties.

El Ballouti's arrest in Dubai in late 2024 was facilitated by intelligence from hacked encrypted messaging services like Sky ECC, which uncovered extensive international drug networks.

El Ballouti, 38, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison and fined 400,000 euros for large-scale drug trafficking, notably through the Port of Antwerp, after previously being sentenced to seven years in September 2024 for importing 840 kilograms of cocaine.

His criminal activities are linked to extensive networks involved in drug transport, money laundering, and violent crimes in Belgium.

Dubai has become a popular refuge for European drug traffickers, including around 40 with Belgian ties, due to its financial benefits and perceived safety.

The extradition process underscores the importance of international legal cooperation in dismantling criminal organizations.