Quincy Promes, a well-known soccer player in Europe, has been arrested in Dubai upon the request of Dutch prosecutors. Promes, who has played for prestigious clubs like Ajax, Sevilla, and Spartak Moscow, was convicted in absentia last month in the Netherlands for his involvement in a drug smuggling operation. He was sentenced to six years in prison for allegedly being a central figure in smuggling 1,360 kilograms of cocaine from Brazil to the Netherlands in 2020.
According to Promes’ lawyers, the extradition process will now proceed in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). They emphasized that an independent judge in Dubai will decide on the Dutch extradition request, a process which can take considerable time due to formalities and requirements.
Promes, aged 32, arrived in Dubai in January with Spartak Moscow for training during the winter break in Russian soccer. His arrest comes amidst his denial of the drug trafficking charges and his intention to appeal the six-year sentence. Additionally, he was convicted in absentia last year for stabbing his cousin in the knee, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence.
The Amsterdam Public Prosecution office confirmed the arrest, noting that it was based on a Red Notice issued by the Netherlands, which requests law enforcement to find and provisionally arrest a suspect. Promes, reportedly living luxuriously in Dubai, has been taken into custody with the joint efforts of authorities from both countries.
Promes’ contract with Spartak Moscow extends until June 2024. However, it remains unclear whether the club will continue playing him in matches or extend his contract amidst these legal issues. Dutch prosecutors stated that they will formally request extradition, with the further procedure being determined by UAE legislation.
Quincy Promes, who has represented the Netherlands in 50 international matches, had a significant market value during his career. The outcome of his extradition proceedings and the duration of his legal ordeal remain uncertain, pending decisions from authorities in both the Netherlands and the UAE.
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