“Extensive mafia structures have consolidated their position and create a parallel society that poses a challenge not only to the police, but also to the justice system,” writes the judge, who remains anonymous for security reasons. According to the information he provides, he is one of only 17 investigating judges in Antwerp who are targeted by criminals because of what they do. Some of his colleagues had to live with their families in places under police protection, and he spent four months in a hidden location.
In the letter, the judge describes how Belgium is increasingly approaching the situation prevailing in Latin American narcostates. “The drug state is characterized by an illicit economy, corruption and violence,” it says. In the letter, he gives examples and evidence to support his words.
