Brussels: Belgian authorities have arrested nine people in relation to a massive financial fraud and match-fixing probe into football.

Three days after an operation targeting nine Belgian clubs, and raids in seven nations, the charges filed include belonging to a criminal organisation, match-fixing, money laundering, and corruption, said federal prosecutor’s spokeswoman, Wenke Roggen.

Those behind bars included three agents and one top division referee. Prosecutors said match-fixing allegations centred on the relegation battle in the top division last season and did not involve a major club.