MAASTRICHT/HEERLEN - The world boxing champion Gevorg K. from Heerlen, suspected of trafficking in women and extortion, was unexpectedly released yesterday by the court in Maastricht. Two co-defendants may also await their trial in freedom. The court sees no grounds to detain them longer, because the justice department has completed the investigation into the trio and there would be no chance of repetition.

The trial of K., who was arrested last June, may not be able to serve until the middle of next year. Due to capacity problems at the court, the examining magistrate is unable to hear witnesses before February 2012. According to press judge Esmee Heuts, however, these organizational problems should be viewed separately from the early release of the suspects. The prosecution reacted furiously to the court decision yesterday.

"This is incomprehensible. We are perplexed and find it bizarre, also with regard to the victims." According to lawyer Serge Weening, Gevorg K. is going to focus on his boxing career again. "This decision shows magisterial class," he said.

The defendant(s) in this case are assisted by: