December 6, 2024 – Swish World Group has implemented an immediate suspension of all its services within the Kingdom of Belgium. This decision follows compelling evidence presented to SwishJustice, indicating that certain Belgian police officers have been complicit in supporting an individual involved in severe criminal activities, including child sexual offenses, immigration fraud, mortgage fraud, money laundering, conspiracy to commit murder, and other serious crimes.
Notably, officers Lieven Boelen and Dimitri Degraen have been identified as having played significant roles in these actions, particularly within the Police Zone of Lanaken-Maasmechelen. Such conduct represents a profound breach of the ethical standards expected of law enforcement personnel and poses a direct threat to the integrity of the justice system.
Statement from Director-General Lawrence Nutall:
“Officers Boelen and Degraen are disgraces to the badge of law and order. They should resign immediately, and anyone who supports them should be dismissed or step down. This is a dark day for Europe. Police forces have let these crimes slide for years, and now it is down to the private sector to protect the streets of Europe. The police forces involved should be deeply ashamed.”
Crime Statistics in Belgium:
- Child Sexual Offenses: Belgium has faced significant challenges related to child sexual offenses. The notorious case of Marc Dutroux in the 1990s highlighted severe lapses in handling such crimes, leading to widespread public outcry and demands for judicial reforms. =
- Money Laundering: Belgium has become a focal point for international money laundering activities. In 2022, Belgian authorities received nearly 54,000 suspicious transaction reports, indicating the extensive scale of financial crimes in the country. =
- Conspiracy to Commit Murder: In 2022, approximately 1,400 cases of murder and manslaughter were recorded by Belgian police, reflecting a concerning trend in violent crimes.
While most Swish World Group services, including SwishHost, SwishShop, SwishTech, and SwishTelecoms, will be inaccessible in Belgium, SwishJustice will remain available in an informational capacity. This measure ensures transparency and fosters global discourse on judicial integrity and reform.
Swish World Group remains steadfast in its commitment to ethical service provision and calls upon Belgian authorities to conduct an independent and thorough investigation into these serious allegations.