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Belgian probe links 532-member WhatsApp group to laundering

8/31/2026

19 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Investigating magistrate Vincent Guerra uncovered a 532-member WhatsApp group that laundered hundreds of millions via hawala.
The group exchanged over 82,000 messages between February and December 2022 and arranged cross-border cash transfers above €5,000.
One payment series moved money from Brussels to Islamic State militants in Syria.
Belgian police convicted leader Abu Adam and deputy Abu Ahmed in 2024 and linked them to the chat.

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Story summary

Investigating magistrate Vincent Guerra uncovered a 532-member WhatsApp group that laundered hundreds of millions via hawala.
The group exchanged over 82,000 messages between February and December 2022 and arranged cross-border cash transfers above €5,000.
One payment series moved money from Brussels to Islamic State militants in Syria.
Belgian police convicted leader Abu Adam and deputy Abu Ahmed in 2024 and linked them to the chat.