BUCHAREST, Romania (AFP) – Controversial influencer Andrew Tate’s residence in Romania was searched by authorities on Wednesday as part of a fresh investigation into new accusations, according to official sources.
Andrew Tate, a prominent figure in the influencer world known for his controversial and often misogynistic views, faces charges related to human trafficking and rape, alongside his brother Tristan. Both brothers, however, have vehemently denied the allegations.
Romanian prosecutors allege that the 37-year-old Andrew Tate, his 36-year-old brother Tristan, and two women established a criminal organization in early 2021, exploiting victims sexually. As of now, no trial date has been set.
The search on August 21, 2024, was part of an ongoing investigation into these charges. Prosecutors confirmed in a statement that “a raid was conducted this morning at the residence of the Tate brothers as part of a search related to a new investigation.”
The investigation is being spearheaded by Romania’s office for organized crime (DIICOT). During the raid, four search warrants were executed in connection with charges including “forming an organized criminal group,” “trafficking in minors,” “sexual relations with a minor,” and “money laundering.” Notably, the statements did not specify if the new charges were directly aimed at the Tate brothers.
Previously, the Tate brothers were detained in Bucharest in 2022 and spent three months in custody before being released under judicial supervision to await trial. The brothers also face separate allegations of rape, assault, and tax evasion in Britain.
Andrew Tate first gained widespread attention in 2016 when he appeared on Britain’s reality television show “Big Brother.” He was removed from the show after a video surfaced showing him attacking a woman. Following his television stint, Tate transitioned to social media, utilizing various platforms to share his divisive views and advice on achieving success. His inflammatory content has made him one of the best-known influencers globally.
The current investigation and subsequent raids form another chapter in the ongoing legal saga surrounding the Tate brothers, whose online presence and real-life actions have drawn both intense scrutiny and widespread notoriety.
