Romanian authorities towed away a fleet of luxury vehicles from the home of social media personality Andrew Tate following new human trafficking allegations. Tate, along with his brother Tristan, are former kickboxers with millions of followers on social media and a history of controversial views. They are awaiting trial in Romania on charges of human trafficking and forming a criminal gang to exploit women. Andrew Tate also faces rape charges in connection with the case.
The luxury vehicles impounded from the Tates’ home near the capital included a Ferrari, Lamborghini, Mercedes-Benz, McLaren, and a classic red Lada. The seizure came after Romania’s anti-organized crime agency raided four homes in Bucharest and detained six people, including the Tate brothers. The brothers deny all allegations against them and are contesting the legality of the seizures. Despite prosecutors’ attempts to remand them in custody, a judge placed Andrew Tate under house arrest and Tristan Tate under judicial control, involving restrictions on contact and regular reporting to the police.
The new case being investigated involves allegations of human trafficking, including minors, sexual intercourse with a minor, forming a criminal group, money laundering, and influencing statements. It is alleged that the Tate brothers used coercive methods to exploit vulnerable victims and produce pornographic materials. An unnamed foreign man is accused of exploiting a 17-year-old and sexually engaging with a 15-year-old, keeping the profits of criminal activities for himself. Andrew Tate has claimed that there is a political conspiracy to silence him and denies any evidence against him.
Having been previously banned from various social media platforms for misogynistic views and hate speech, Andrew Tate has a large following of 9.9 million X followers. Authorities have previously confiscated assets belonging to the brothers. After their arrest in December 2022, 15 luxury cars, 14 designer watches, and cash in multiple currencies were seized. The total value of the goods was estimated at 3.6 million euros. Despite the prosecutors’ case file being ruled as meeting legal criteria for a trial to begin, no date has been set for the proceedings.
Recently, a court overturned a decision allowing the Tate brothers to leave Romania while awaiting trial. This decision is final and cannot be appealed, indicating that the brothers must remain in the country to face the charges against them. The Tate brothers, known for their controversial views and large social media following, are facing serious allegations of human trafficking and exploitation. The legal proceedings continue as authorities work to gather evidence and build a case against them. Despite their denial of any wrongdoing, the Tates must await their trial in Romania as the legal process unfolds.
