Major Interpol sting: Dubai police arrest Europe’s 3 most wanted fugitives in global crackdown

Dubai: In a major blow against transnational organised crime, Dubai Police have arrested and extradited three high-profile Belgian nationals wanted for serious cross-border offences.

Authorities confirmed that all three were listed among Europe’s most wanted fugitives.

The suspects—Mathias Akyazili, Giorgi Faes, and Othman El Ballouti—were apprehended in Dubai based on Interpol red notices, following close coordination between UAE authorities and international law enforcement agencies, including Interpol and Europol.

According to officials, the trio face a series of serious criminal charges in Belgium, including leading a notorious criminal gang, drug trafficking, robbery, human trafficking, and the distribution of psychotropic substances.

Coordinated international operation

The arrests were part of a coordinated international operation, underscoring Dubai Police’s expanding collaboration with global law enforcement agencies.

“This operation highlights the UAE’s unwavering commitment to international justice and its strategic role in combatting transnational organised crime,” Dubai Police said in a statement.

Extradition to Belgium for prosecution

The trio have since been extradited to Belgian authorities to face prosecution in their home country.

Ongoing role in global crime fighting

Dubai Police continue to position themselves as a key partner in the global fight against criminal networks, leveraging advanced surveillance capabilities and international cooperation to track and apprehend fugitives hiding beyond their national borders.