Brussels Judge Indicts Officials in Justice Ministry Leak Scandal, Opposition Demands Inquiry
October 27, 2026
A Brussels investigative judge indicted the spokesperson for Justice Minister Annelies Verlinden and the Dutch-speaking spokesperson for the Brussels prosecutor9s office over suspected breaches of professional secrecy related to the I-Police dossier, signaling a serious legal development in the case.
The indictment centers on alleged attempts to spy on the Brussels public prosecutor1s office through communications channels tied to the Justice Ministry and Verlinden1s cabinet, raising concerns about internal access and confidentiality.
Earlier this year, Verlinden faced scrutiny tied to the same issue, but investigations were confined to parliamentary hearings and a Court of Audit audit request funded by majority parties.
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Opposition parties Vlaams Belang and Groen urge a parliamentary inquiry, while MR calls for a thorough examination of the matter within government and Parliament.
The governing majority has kept a low public profile, possibly to coordinate a strategic response.
Coalition partners are cautious: Vooruit awaits the results of judicial investigations, and N-VA notes an ongoing inquiry.
MR leader Beno4t Piedboeuf warns that several alleged acts raise serious questions, pressing for a firm Court of Audit review and urging Verlinden to address the Chamber to ensure transparency.
A Court of Audit report is anticipated soon, with Interior and Justice committees in the Chamber set to review the dossier.
The I-Police project was a broad police digitization program originally budgeted at 299 million euros; it was halted after an evaluation found substantial spend with limited returns.
Le Soir revelations triggered political pushback, with the opposition demanding explanations in Parliament.
Le PS, through deputy Ridouane, calls for Verlinden to draw rapid conclusions and says clinging to the post is no longer acceptable, insisting on judicial independence.
Summary based on 6 sources