Former Ajax forward Quincy Promes has been handed a significant legal setback as he faces a six-year prison sentence for his role in a cocaine smuggling operation into the Netherlands. Despite being convicted of charges related to importing, exporting, transporting, and possessing cocaine, Promes was notably absent during his trial proceedings in Amsterdam.
His legal team has indicated that he vehemently denies the allegations and intends to appeal the verdict, setting the stage for a potentially protracted legal battle.
Promes, who currently plies his trade with Spartak Moscow in Russia, finds himself in a precarious position regarding potential jail time. This is due to the absence of an extradition treaty agreement between the Netherlands and Russia, which could offer Promes a route to avoid incarceration should he refrain from returning to his home country.
The criminal investigation surrounding Promes stems from a January 2020 incident where Dutch authorities uncovered two separate shipments of cocaine concealed within bags of sea salt aboard a container ship arriving from Brazil.
Dutch law enforcement became suspicious of Promes after intercepting incriminating messages, which led to charges.
It is alleged that Promes was involved in a cocaine smuggling operation and also owned crypto phones. Furthermore, he is accused of investing a significant 200,000 euros in this illegal trade. These allegations led to a thorough investigation of Promes’ activities, which involved law enforcement using eavesdropping equipment and surveillance to gather evidence against the former Ajax star.
Despite facing legal issues, Promes has maintained his productivity on the football field, providing eight goals and eight assists for Spartak Moscow in various competitions this season. He recently participated in a warm-weather training camp in Dubai with the team, demonstrating his continued dedication to his professional responsibilities despite ongoing legal challenges.
Promes’ legal woes extend beyond the realm of drug-related charges. Last June, he was convicted of aggravated assault for his involvement in a stabbing incident involving his cousin in 2020, resulting in an 18-month prison sentence.
These legal entanglements have shadowed Promes’ career trajectory, raising questions about his prospects in professional football amid ongoing legal battles and potential incarceration.
