New developments in the Firdaous murder case in Antwerp

Soeradj S. is suspected of having directed the perpetrator of the fatal attack that occurred in the Merksem district on January 9, 2023. Detained in the Netherlands for nearly three months, he appeared on Thursday before the Chamber of International Judicial Assistance to rule on his handover to the Belgian authorities.

The tragedy had occurred when bursts of AK-47 fire pierced a garage door, hitting a Moroccan family who were dining in their kitchen. The young Ferdaous died from her injuries, while her father and two sisters were more lightly hit by the projectiles.

The victim was the niece of drug baron Othman E.B. According to Mayor Bart De Wever, this tragic event is part of a drug war where relatives who have remained in Europe become collateral targets of criminals based abroad.

The suspect categorically denies any involvement in the shooting targeting the family’s residence. "I find it very sad to already be detained when I am innocent," he told the judges, hoping that his innocence will be proven quickly. The Amsterdam court will make its final decision on this extradition on March 19.