Belgian authorities are currently conducting an investigation into the alleged rape and sexual assault of at least 41 women. These incidents are suspected to involve drinks that were laced with drugs, including ketamine, a general anesthetic that is sometimes used recreationally due to its hallucinogenic effects. Three bar managers in the northwestern city of Kortrijk have been pinpointed as the primary suspects in the investigation. Investigators claim that these individuals discussed the attacks among themselves.

Griet De Prest, a spokesperson for the Western Flanders public prosecutor’s office, stated on Thursday that as of now, 41 victims have been identified for the period between December 2021 and December 2024, with the investigation ongoing to potentially identify additional victims. One of the main suspects has been arrested, a second is scheduled to appear before a judge on Thursday, and a third was released after a series of arrests on Tuesday and Wednesday.

The suspects are accused of rape, sexual assault, and the unauthorized administration of harmful substances, according to the prosecutor’s office. Young women reportedly were offered shots of alcohol, often flavored with amaretto, and subsequently woke up groggy in unknown beds or their own beds, showing clear signs of sexual abuse.

Belgium’s Interior Minister, Bernard Quintin, condemned the alleged attacks as “unacceptable” and criticized the ease of obtaining ketamine.

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/mar/27/bar-managers-investigated-over-sexual-assault-of-41-women-in-belgium