BUCHAREST, Aug 22, 2024 (BSS/AFP) - Romanian prosecutors on Wednesday
detained controversial influencer Andrew Tate, who is already awaiting trial
over human trafficking and rape charges, after raiding his home in a new
investigation involving minors.

One of the world's best-known influencers known for misogynist and sometimes
violent maxims, Tate, 37, and his brother Tristan, 36, are being held "for 24
hours" for questioning by the office for organised crime (DIICOT), their
spokeswoman said.

Earlier Wednesday, their residence was raided as "part of a search related to
a new investigation", according to the spokeswoman.

DIICOT said in a statement that four search warrants were executed in and
around Bucharest in connection with "the crimes of forming an organised
criminal group, trafficking in minors", "sexual relations with a minor" and
"money laundering".

The Tate brothers have already been accused of having formed an organised
criminal network in early 2021 in Romania and Britain. They have denied the
charges.

Prosecutors allege they and two women set up a criminal organisation and
sexually exploited several victims. A trial date has not yet been set.

They were detained in 2022 in Bucharest and spent three months in detention
before being released under judicial supervision to await trial.

The brothers also face rape and assault allegations in separate cases in
Britain, where they have also been accused of tax evasion.

In 2016, Tate appeared on the "Big Brother" reality television show in
Britain but was removed after a video emerged showing him attacking a woman.

He then turned to social media platforms to promote his divisive views.

Giving tips on how to be successful, along with sharing controversial views,
his videos have made him one of the world's best-known influencers.