In a recent development, a Romanian court has agreed to Britain’s request for the extradition of internet personality Andrew Tate. However, the court has decided to delay the extradition process until the conclusion of Tate’s ongoing trial in Romania. The court’s decision was announced on Tuesday, with the appeals court stating that it will “execute the arrest warrant” but will “postpone handing over the requested person until the final verdict in the criminal case argued at the Bucharest court.”
Andrew Tate, known for his controversial online persona and promotion of an ultra-masculine lifestyle, and his brother Tristan were initially detained for 24 hours as the court deliberated on the British arrest warrant. Following the ruling, both brothers were ordered to be released from police custody immediately. The warrant, issued by Westminster Magistrates Court, pertains to allegations of sexual aggression from 2012 to 2015, which the Tate brothers have “categorically” denied through their PR team.
The Tate brothers have been embroiled in legal troubles since June when they were indicted in Romania on charges of human trafficking, rape, and forming a criminal gang to sexually exploit women. They have consistently denied these charges. The case is currently with the Bucharest court’s preliminary chamber, which is yet to decide if the trial can commence amidst a backlog in Romanian courts.
Previously, the Tate brothers were held in police custody from late December 2022 until April to prevent potential flight risk or evidence tampering. They were subsequently placed under house arrest until August and are currently under judicial control. This measure allows them freedom of movement within Romania but restricts them from leaving the country, with mandatory regular check-ins with police.
This case has garnered international attention due to Andrew Tate’s significant online following and his divisive views on gender roles. As legal proceedings continue, both Romanian and British authorities are closely monitoring the situation. The outcome of the Romanian trial will determine the next steps in this complex legal saga involving extradition and serious criminal allegations.
For further details on this developing story, please refer to our additional coverage.