Dutch soccer player Quincy Promes, facing a six-year prison sentence in absentia for drug trafficking, has been arrested in Dubai. Promes’ lawyers confirmed the arrest and stated he will fight extradition to the Netherlands.
Promes, a former forward for prominent European clubs like Ajax and Sevilla, was convicted last month by a Dutch court for his alleged involvement in a major drug smuggling operation. Prosecutors accused him of playing a key role in trafficking over 1,360 kilograms of cocaine from Brazil to the Netherlands in two separate incidents during 2020.
According to Promes’ lawyers, the extradition process will now be handled by the United Arab Emirates. They emphasized that a judge in Dubai will independently evaluate the Dutch extradition request. Extradition procedures can be lengthy and complex, involving numerous formalities, which is standard practice in the Netherlands as well.
Promes reportedly traveled to Dubai in January with his current club, Spartak Moscow, for winter training during the Russian soccer break. CNN has reached out to Dubai authorities, Spartak Moscow, and Promes’ representatives for comment, but no response has been received yet.
Promes’ lawyers previously maintained his innocence regarding the drug charges and confirmed an appeal of the six-year sentence. Additionally, Reuters reported a separate conviction in absentia from last year for allegedly stabbing his cousin, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence.
Dutch authorities confirmed the arrest of a 32-year-old man residing in Moscow in Dubai, based on a Red Notice issued by the Netherlands. Red Notices are international alerts requesting law enforcement agencies to locate and provisionally detain suspects.
Dutch prosecutors clarified that Promes was reportedly residing in luxury accommodations in Dubai. They emphasized the collaborative effort between Dutch and Emirati authorities that led to his arrest. Citing the ongoing investigation, further details were withheld by Dutch prosecutors.
Promes, a former Netherlands national team player with 50 appearances, reportedly held a transfer value of $26 million at his peak, as per Transfermarkt, a respected football website.
Dutch authorities confirmed their intention to formally request Promes’ extradition, with the final decision resting on the UAE’s legal system. Upon receiving approval from the UAE, the Netherlands will arrange for Promes’ transfer.
Promes’ contract with Spartak Moscow expires in June 2024, according to Transfermarkt. Whether the club will continue playing him or extend his contract remains unclear, as they haven’t responded to CNN’s inquiries.
