Pigeon Theft Linked To Global Criminal Networks
High-value racing pigeons have been targeted in a series of thefts across Europe. A raid was conducted in a Brussels suburb in March 2025 following these developments. Fanciers are increasingly using DNA genetic libraries to prove parentage and protect against theft. Police in a Brussels suburb are using DNA testing to identify birds recovered from a March 2025 raid. Genetic analysis has successfully identified 20 of the recovered pigeons. Ruben Landkreet provided the DNA analysis used to link the birds to their owners. Belgian federal police used DNA analysis to identify 20 recovered pigeons following a series of robberies. A raid in March 2025 recovered 27 pigeons, though the original identity rings were missing. Genetic testing helped confirm the identity of two grandchildren of a bird named Finn. The pattern of abductions has been noted by local reports.
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Sources · 7 independent
“The Who Done It was among 35 pigeon robberies across Belgium over the last three years. High-value racing pigeons have also been stolen in Great Britain.”
“Police combed through security camera video, license plate reader data and cell phone records tied to a dozen robberies across Belgium, including Tom Bonne-Gover's.”
“His DNA analysis helped identify 20 of the recovered pigeons, including two of Finn's grandchildren. Pigeon tests have been happening... But now we can solve them, right?”
“His DNA analysis helped identify 20 of the recovered pigeons, including two of Bin's grandchildren. Pigeon thefts have been happening. But now you can solve them, right? With DNA?”
“The who done it was among 35 pigeon robberies across Belgium over the last three years. High value racing pigeons have also been stolen”
“pigeon mafia because a stolen pigeon, or its offspring could be identified.”
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