Andrew Tate faces new allegations of trafficking and exploitation

Controversial social media influencer Andrew Tate was detained once more on Wednesday as Romanian authorities conducted fresh raids on his home, following new allegations of human trafficking and sexual misconduct involving a minor. Tate, 37, and his brother Tristan, 36, were taken from their Bucharest residence by masked police as part of an ongoing investigation led by Romania's anti-organized crime agency, DIICOT. The agency's investigation includes serious charges such as forming an organized criminal group, trafficking minors, and money laundering. Tate, who is already awaiting trial on previous charges of rape and human trafficking, expressed frustration to reporters, questioning the legitimacy of the legal proceedings against him. The current investigation appears to be separate from the earlier case for which he and his brother were indicted last year, alongside two Romanian women. All four individuals have denied the allegations against them, and it remains unclear whether the latest raids are directly related to the ongoing trial. In response to the raids, Tate's spokesperson, Mateea Petrescu, confirmed that the search warrant included suspicions of human trafficking and money laundering, but did not address the allegations involving minors. The Romanian authorities have requested an extension of Tate's detention for an additional 30 days, while Tristan faces lighter restrictions. The Tate brothers, known for their divisive online presence and promotion of an ultra-masculine lifestyle, have garnered millions of followers on social media. Their controversial views have drawn significant criticism, particularly given their influence over a predominantly young male audience.