The Audio Long Read From the archive: The cartel, the journalist and the gangland killings that rocked the Netherlands
Jan 7, 2026
Explore the dark underbelly of organized crime in the Netherlands, where a shocking series of gangland killings laid bare a hidden crisis. Witness the rise of trafficker Ridwan Taki and the dangerous choices faced by whistleblower Nabil B. Discover the explosive role of investigative journalist Peter R. de Vries, who risked everything to expose the truth. Hear about the chilling aftermath of de Vries's assassination and the shifting tides in public policy towards crime. This haunting narrative unravels the complex web of crime, courage, and media in a liberal society.
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Crown Witness Who Triggered The Crackdown
- Nabil B. grew from a small-time weed seller into a lookout who witnessed and helped arrange murders for Ridwan Taki's organisation.
- His decision to turn himself in as a Crown Witness in January 2017 set off arrests, killings, and a prolonged, high‑security legal saga.
Tolerance Masked A Brewing Cocaine War
- The Netherlands' drug tolerance masked a growing, violent organised‑crime problem until brazen attacks made the threat visible.
- Public perception shifted from viewing drug policy as harmless to recognising criminal networks' deep societal impact.
A Crime Reporter Turned Celebrity Investigator
- Peter R. de Vries built a celebrity career exposing cold cases and staging high‑profile stings that won national trust and even an Emmy.
- His notoriety and willingness to intervene in cases made him a prominent, polarising figure in Dutch crime reporting.
