Andrew Tate: Romanian police pursue probe into controversial influencer

By Lucy Williamson

BBC News, Bucharest

Romanian police are expanding their investigation into former kickboxing champion Andrew Tate, seizing a fleet of luxury cars from his Bucharest compound over the weekend, and raiding seven more properties - including a newly renovated villa beneath the Carpathian Mountains.

The sight of Mr Tate's shiny dove-grey Porsche perched delicately on the battered frame of a police tow truck neatly captured his shift in fortunes as, through the high black gates of his compound, a slow procession of trucks carried his prized collection of luxury cars to join him in police custody.

At the side of the road, a single fan stood watching. "I consider myself a fan," Emmanuel told me. "Every boy likes his lifestyle.

"I don't like what I'm hearing about him, but we'll see if it's true. I'll change my attitude if I see proof."

Some here see the confiscation of the cars as a sign that the Romanian authorities are preparing for the next stage in this case, securing assets as collateral against potential compensation claims from victims, in the event that Andrew Tate or his brother Tristan are charged with people trafficking.