By Melike Pala
BRUSSELS (AA) - An investigating judge at the Antwerp court has warned that Belgium is "evolving into a narco-state," saying organized crime has become a structural threat undermining the country's institutions, according to a letter cited by the Belga news agency on Monday.
In an open letter addressed to the members of the Justice Committee, the judge said the Belgian judiciary is facing an "organized threat" that goes beyond traditional criminal activity.
"Extensive mafia structures have become entrenched, becoming a parallel force that challenges not only the police, but also the judiciary," the judge wrote.
The judge, who reportedly went into hiding for several months due to death threats, said Belgium is increasingly showing signs of a narco-state -- defined by an illegal economy, corruption, and violence.
"According to our Drugs Commissioner, this evolution has begun. My colleagues and I share this sentiment," the letter stated.
The judge also denounced the lack of institutional protection and support for magistrates targeted by organized crime.
"Several investigating judges have had to live under permanent police protection for extended periods due to an imminent, tangible threat to their person, their family and their home," the letter said.
The judge noted that despite these risks, there is "no compensation, no shelter for family and colleagues, no insurance for all damages," and said the government seems to treat the danger as "just part of the job."
The judge warned that intimidation of magistrates poses a "dangerous attack on democracy," as it discourages others from handling organized crime cases.
Calling for a "master plan" to safeguard the justice system, the judge urged authorities to implement a sustainable strategy and several short-term measures.
"Despite all the efforts of the police and the judiciary, we are no longer able to protect our citizens and ourselves," the judge said, calling on the government to make the fight against organized crime a "structural priority" to defend the rule of law.