Bar owners arrested over assaults on 41 women in Belgium

Three bar managers in Belgium are among five men arrested. They are linked to the rape and sexual assault of many women. Local police reported that at least 41 female victims were affected.

The incidents occurred from December 2021 to December 2024. The three suspects managed bars in Kortrijk, where the spikings happened. Investigators believe they discussed the attacks together.

On Wednesday and Thursday, five men were arrested in this investigation. Two of them appeared before an investigating judge on Thursday. The other two are still being questioned by detectives.

The fifth man has been released after his interview. The suspects face charges of rape, sexual assault, and administering harmful substances.

Officials suspect drugs were mixed into the women's drinks. Ketamine, a recreational anesthetic with hallucinogenic effects, is one such drug involved.

Tom Janssens, a prosecutor's office spokesman, shared details about the victims' experiences. "Young women were offered alcohol shots," he said. Many woke up confused in unknown beds or their own homes with signs of abuse.