Multiple reports in Belgian media outlets state that the police action was organized as part of a clampdown against social dumping in West Flanders.
The checks took place at a business park near the Port of Zeebrugge and involved close cooperation between the West Flanders federal judicial police, the road police, the Inspectorate for the Supervision of Social Transport Acts and the RSZ Inspectorate.
“62 trucks were parked at the site, with the trucks mainly coming from Lithuania. Several drivers from Belarus and Ukraine were found. These trucks were transporting passenger cars, including Teslas. Eleven trucks were seized because of elements that suggested human trafficking and economic exploitation. Various documents were seized for further investigation,” said labour prosecutor Filiep De Ketelaere.
During the checks, officers also examined whether the audited companies were effectively operating continuously from Belgium, thereby avoiding labour law obligations in the country – including higher national insurance and other costs.
“Such companies create unfair competition for companies that do adhere to the rules. In addition, the behavior of these companies can lead to the exploitation of drivers and unsafe situations on the road,” added De Ketelaere.
The matter will now be subject to further investigation.
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