Romanian Police Raid Home Of Andrew Tate As Investigations Continue
Romanian police have once again raided the home of controversial internet personality Andrew Tate as part of an ongoing investigation into multiple serious allegations, including human trafficking and sex with a minor.
The raid, which took place early Wednesday at Tate's property near Bucharest, was one of four searches conducted by Romania's anti-organized crime agency, DIICOT, in the capital and the surrounding Ilfov county. DIICOT stated that the searches are part of an ongoing criminal case, and hearings will be held later at their headquarters.
Andrew Tate, along with his brother Tristan, is already awaiting trial on previous charges of human trafficking, rape, and forming a criminal gang to exploit women. Both brothers, who have gained a massive following on social media by promoting a hyper-masculine lifestyle, have denied all charges against them.
The latest investigation adds to the list of allegations, now including trafficking of minors, sexual intercourse with a minor, money laundering, and influencing witness statements.
Tate claims raid is part of conspiracy
Following the raid, Tate's representatives confirmed the police action but emphasised that the "charges in the search warrant are not yet fully clarified." They noted that his legal team is involved to ensure proper procedures are followed.
Tate, known for his self-described misogynistic views, took to social media to respond to the raid, claiming it was part of a broader conspiracy against him.
"The Matrix is real. And they have a tried and true playbook. Slander is their number one tool and the process is the punishment. But unfortunately for them, Good always wins in the end," he wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
Recent raid adds to Tate controversy
The Tate brothers, both former kickboxers and dual UK-US citizens, were initially arrested in December 2022 and spent three months in police custody before being placed under house arrest. They were later released from house arrest in August 2023 but remain restricted to Romania as they await trial.
Romanian prosecutors formally indicted the brothers and their two Romanian female associates in mid-2023, accusing them of running an organised criminal group that exploited women through an adult content business. Seven alleged victims were identified in the indictment.
In addition to the Romanian charges, the Tate brothers are also wanted in the UK in connection with separate sexual offences that allegedly took place between 2012 and 2015. However, any potential extradition to the UK will only occur after the legal proceedings in Romania have ended.