Romania's Justice Minister Radu Marinescu has raised questions about the circumstances surrounding the departure of controversial social media influencers Andrew and Tristan Tate from the country. The Tate brothers, aged 38 and 36 respectively, have faced serious charges, including human trafficking, since their arrests in 2022. Following a relaxation of their travel restrictions, the duo was permitted to leave Romania on Thursday and reportedly travelled to the United States.
In light of their exit, Minister Marinescu has formally requested that Romania's special prosecution service, known as DIICOT, investigate the matter further. "Conduct any investigation necessary to uncover the truth," he stated, highlighting the urgency with which he seeks clarity regarding their release from a two-year travel ban.
The Tates are accused of forming an organised group aimed at sexually exploiting women in Romania. Additional charges include allegations of rape against Andrew Tate. Furthermore, they are embroiled in a civil case in the US, wherein a woman claims she was coerced into sex work by the brothers and subsequently defamed after providing testimony to Romanian authorities. They are also facing separate allegations of rape and human trafficking in the UK.
The recent wave of controversy follows their significant legal history in Romania, where they had remained under house arrest for several months. On Thursday, officials lifted this ban and returned their US passports. This move has raised eyebrows, particularly as it occurred despite ongoing investigations into their alleged criminal activities and an expectation for them to appear in Romania for further questioning.
Concerns have been intensified by suggestions that the Tates' release may have been influenced by political factors, notably pressure from the Trump administration, although US President Trump has publicly stated he was unaware of the circumstances surrounding their release.
Minister Marinescu noted that the Tates "risk pre-trial detention" should they fail to return to Romania, underscoring the potential legal ramifications that await them. He pointed out that "there are legal mechanisms in place to resolve this situation", potentially referencing the extradition treaty established between the US and Romania.
Public sentiment in Romania reflects growing apprehension regarding perceived disparities in legal accountability between affluent individuals and the general populace. As the situation unfolds, both the Tates and Romanian authorities remain in the spotlight, with many citizens questioning equity within the justice system.
Source: Noah Wire Services