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Ex-Premier League footballer Ronnie Stam has been arrested and is currently on trial for his alleged involvement in smuggling two tons of cocaine and being under investigation for money laundering.
The Dutch right-back, who was once a prominent figure in football, is accused of trafficking 2,217 kilograms of cocaine in 2021 and 2022.
A prosecutor described Stam as a “major player in the drugs world” during a hearing at a court in Breda, Netherlands, on Thursday.
Stam was not present in court during the proceedings.
In June, police conducted a raid on six homes and a camper van, seizing £85,000 in cash, luxury watches, jewelry, properties, and vehicles as part of their investigation into the former footballer’s criminal activities.
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The raids came after suspicion mounted around Stam’s involvement in drug offenses. Stam, who remains in custody, must appear before a judge on November 28 to answer for the serious allegations.
The case has caused widespread disappointment, as Stam’s criminal actions have tarnished his once-illustrious football career and raised concerns about the integrity of individuals within professional sports.
Authorities are expected to continue their investigation thoroughly, with the footballer likely to face serious consequences if found guilty, reinforcing that the law applies to everyone, regardless of status.
