In March 2021, Sahil Malik, a 33-year-old lawyer, was apprehended during the initial wave of arrests under Operation Sky ECC. Subsequent investigations revealed his involvement in chat groups with drug criminals through a Sky ECC cryptophone.
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| Sahil Malik in his office, source: PNWS |
Despite being recognized as a rising star in the legal field, Malik, hailing from the southern region of Antwerp, known for defending individuals such as pickpockets, thieves, and teenage pimps, was found to be an active participant among drug dealers, according to Belgian media.
Using the alias "Sher" on the Sky ECC system, Malik's conversations were scrutinized by Belgian investigators. These exchanges included discussions among criminals and drug traffickers detailing the smuggling of cocaine into the port of Antwerp. In one instance, an Albanian gangster inquired about a seized cocaine shipment, to which "Sher" responded by claiming he had sought information from a pensioner with connections at the port.
Malik also asserted having contacts at customs who could ascertain whether containers were selected for scanning. On September 18, following a successful trial, he allegedly stated, "The whole file is in the trash. I hope your friends will be correct and come with a big sports bag."
Initially denying the use of the alias 'Sher,' Malik later made partial confessions after his arrest, acknowledging the gravity of the situation. Consequently, he has been barred from practicing law, with the court sentencing him on Tuesday to five years in prison, including a 20-month suspended term, for his involvement in a criminal organization and money laundering. The court also ordered the confiscation of 161 thousand euros. Malik retains the option to appeal the decision.