Jean-Claude Van Damme under investigation for alleged sexual relations with trafficked women

Jean-Claude Van Damme

Actor Jean-Claude Van Damme is facing serious allegations in Romania involving sexual relations with trafficked women. According to The Hindu, a criminal complaint has been filed against the 64-year-old Street Fighter and Bloodsport star, accusing him of “knowingly accepting five Romanian women as a ‘gift’” from a criminal group led by Morel Bolea. The group is already under investigation for human trafficking and organized crime.

The complaint, filed with Romania’s Directorate for Investigating Organised Crime and Terrorism (DIICOT), alleges that Van Damme was fully aware the women were victims of trafficking. “The person who received those benefits knew their condition,” said Adrian Cuculis, an attorney representing one of the victims. He added, the women “were in a state of vulnerability, with the suspicion that they were exploited.”

The alleged incident reportedly took place during an event in Cannes organized by Van Damme. One of the women present at the gathering later provided testimony to prosecutors, prompting DIICOT to initiate an official investigation. Reports also state that “several Romanians who are currently being investigated for forming a criminal group and pimping” were involved in offering these women to Van Damme.

This case is said to be linked to a broader human trafficking probe that began in 2020, led by Romania’s Prosecutor’s Office. Before any formal proceedings can commence, the High Court of Cassation in France must authorize legal action. If granted, suspects, including Van Damme, will be summoned to Romania for questioning.

Despite the serious nature of the allegations, Van Damme has not yet issued a public statement. His representatives and DIICOT also have not released official responses.

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Van Damme is best known for his action roles in films like Kickboxer, The Expendables 2, and Bloodsport. These recent accusations have cast a shadow over his legacy, as the case draws global attention. The report also comes in the wake of similar high-profile cases involving figures like Andrew Tate, who is also facing charges in Romania for rape and trafficking.

As of now, the investigation is ongoing, and no formal charges have been confirmed. The legal proceedings await the decision of the French judiciary to move forward.