The UAE Embassy in Brussels has confirmed the extradition of Nordin El Hajjioui to Belgium on 29 March 2024, following the Dubai Court of Cassation's decision on 7 March 2024 to extradite El Hajjioui to Belgium on charges of drug trafficking.
The accused was handed over to the relevant authorities in accordance with the extradition agreement between the United Arab Emirates and the Kingdom of Belgium, signed in December 2021. The UAE completed its national legislation requirements for this agreement in August 2022, and Belgium completed its corresponding process in October 2022. The agreement officially took effect in November 2022. Since its activation, several meetings between ministers and high-ranking officials have taken place, in addition to the convening of technical working groups.
The UAE reiterates its commitment to continued collaboration with international partners, including Belgium, to pursue justice globally. This cooperation aims to reinforce efforts combating serious international crimes, including organized crime, money laundering, terrorism financing, and drug smuggling and trafficking.
