🎯 “Millions worth of pigeons stolen… but justice strikes back thanks to DNA and a relentless pursuit of truth!”
Fanciers across Belgium, the Netherlands, and Luxembourg can finally breathe a little easier. What once felt like a dark cloud hanging over our beloved sport is slowly lifting. Thanks to the relentless work of the Federal Judicial Police of Limburg and the KBDB, a well-organized international pigeon theft ring has been uncovered—and partially dismantled.
And here’s the headline: over 170 stolen champion pigeons have been recovered a breakthrough that sends shockwaves through the pigeon racing world.
🔍 The Facts – What Really Happened?
Starting late 2023, and increasingly in early 2024, a surge of racing pigeon thefts plagued the sport. But these weren’t random birds—they were champions.
Barcelona stars, Marseille winners, elite breeders—carefully selected and ruthlessly stolen.
It all changed in the night of January 5–6, 2025, when a daring theft in Sint-Truiden triggered a major investigation. The Federal Judicial Police of Limburg took charge and soon uncovered a highly sophisticated criminal network.
This gang used social media to track down top-performing pigeons and planned their heists with precision: anonymous vehicles, encrypted communications, and silent operations.
But you don’t outsmart true passion. On March 31, simultaneous raids in Vilvoorde led to the arrest of two suspects, aged 24 and 45. Inside: over 100 pigeons held in appalling conditions.
Then came another shocker: 71 more pigeons were discovered in Romania, at the home of one of the suspects’ parents. A third suspect—aged 40—was arrested and awaits extradition to Belgium. Two more suspects remain at large.
🧬 DNA and Justice – When Science Joins the Fight
The KBDB moved fast, combining experience with science. Thanks to DNA testing, many pigeons were positively identified and returned to their rightful owners. Some of the key returns include:
- The national winner Marseille 2024 of Willy Verbruggen (Londerzeel)
- “Poco Barcelona 2015” and other champions belonging to Van Ouwerkerk-Dekkers (Brasschaat)
- Two high-potential yearlings from Tom Van Gaver (Moortsele)
This level of precision and professionalism is rare—and sends a strong message to every would-be thief: You will not break our sport.
🗓️ Next Step: Official Viewing Day at KBDB Headquarters
To ensure all recovered birds are reunited with their owners, the KBDB will organize an official Viewing Day at their headquarters in Halle.
⚠️ Important: This is by invitation only and must be done in the presence of a judicial police representative. Fanciers who believe they are victims of pigeon theft (2024–2025) are asked to contact sport@kbdb.be to register.
Please do not show up unannounced. Every step is part of an official legal procedure.
🤝 Cross-Border Collaboration: Belgium and the Netherlands United
One of the most encouraging signs of progress? International cooperation.
KBDB Chairman Pascal Bodengien personally contacted his Dutch counterpart Ben Geerink, acknowledging that Dutch fanciers are also victims.
They too will have the chance to identify their pigeons at a later date—because in this sport, solidarity knows no borders.
🛡️ Final Words from The Pigeon Boss
This case reminds us that even in a sport as pure as pigeon racing, dark forces can emerge. But it also reminds us of the power of passion, persistence, and partnership.
When names like Poco Barcelona and the Marseille winner are brought home through science and determination, there’s hope for all.
So here’s my message to you:
Stay vigilant. Report suspicious behavior. Register your pigeons well. And above all—stay proud. Because in the world of pigeon racing, we are family, and we don’t let criminals tear us apart.
Until the next blog,
Jan de Wijs
The Pigeon Boss
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