The trial of fashion broker Martijn N (36), accused of the rape of nine young men, two younger than 16, started in Amsterdam on Thursday.

The case came to light in 2021 when 20 young men accused N of “rape, violence and drugging them” in articles in newspapers the Parool and NRC. Eight other men came forward later. N was also mentioned in connection with cases of sexual harassment of fashion students.

N’s record of abuse is thought to date back to 2010 and he used the same modus operandi every time. N would approach newcomers to Amsterdam via social media, offer them help to find their way around, assist them with the exam to access fashion school, and provide contacts in the fashion world.

Upon meeting them, N allegedly drugged and raped them. N, who is described as “physically strong” is also said to have bitten and beaten his victims.

N became a name in the world of fashion in 2012 when he started brokering deals between young designers and big brands via his cultural platform Moam, such as Viktor & Rolf and HEMA. He also attracted sponsorship for fashion shows from KLM, Rabobank and the Concertgebouw.

Some 17 men reported N to the police. The trial will look at 11 of the cases, nine of which involve rape, including of two minors.