Six sex shops in central Brussels have been shut down following police raids that uncovered the suspected illegal sale of drugs, erectile dysfunction medication, and banned stimulants.
On Wednesday, 13 August, officers from the Brussels-Capital Ixelles police zone carried out inspections at seven premises in the city centre. Five of these had already been checked during an earlier operation on 27 July.
The raids were carried out in collaboration with several agencies, including the Brussels public prosecutor, the Federal Agency for the Safety of the Food Chain (AFSCA), the National Social Security Office (ONSS), the Federal Agency of Medicines and Health Products (AFMPS), and the Federal Public Service Finance.
According to police, the operation targeted the illegal sale of poppers, prescription-only medicines such as Viagra and its derivatives (including Kamagra), and various stimulant products. These included "stimulating honey" and other food supplements containing sildenafil and tadalafil, active ingredients used in the treatment of erectile dysfunction.
Several offences were recorded. Officers seized €29,394.45 in cash during the operation, along with the prohibited goods.
Several offences were recorded. Officers seized €29,394.45 in cash during the operation, alongside the prohibited goods. Credit: PolBru
Several offences were recorded. Officers seized €29,394.45 in cash during the operation, alongside the prohibited goods. Credit: PolBru
Several offences were recorded. Officers seized €29,394.45 in cash during the operation, alongside the prohibited goods. Credit: PolBru
Police also conducted five residential searches following the raids. Six individuals were detained, and a judge has ordered the closure of six of the targeted establishments.
Authorities have not yet confirmed whether the closures will be temporary or permanent, or if further charges will be made. The operation is part of an ongoing crackdown on illegal drug and stimulant sales in central Brussels’ nightlife and entertainment districts.
