In the seemingly quiet village of Wanzele, a pigeon racing scandal has emerged that defies belief. A seemingly trusted handler, G.H., turned out to be a master of deception. Over the years, while handling the pigeon baskets, he secretly stole dozens of champion pigeons from their rightful owners. A theft of more than 100 pigeons, affecting at least 30 fanciers, was committed under the guise of loyalty and passion.
Suspicion grew from 2020 onwards, as the best pigeons repeatedly vanished after being entered for prize races. But the bombshell only dropped when renowned fancier Etienne Buyle filed a complaint with the KBDB. A raid on G.H.’s home revealed a shocking truth: pigeons without ownership certificates, hastily hidden traces, and a reality too painful to accept. In a cruel twist of fate, some top flyers returned to their owners — years after they had been presumed lost.
Among the victims were Koen & Kelly Stevens from Serskamp (see picture). Their promising pigeon, BE19-4087343 ‘Grandson Bolt II’, disappeared without a trace in 2021 after a race from Sermaises. Hope faded, tears were shed, and their passion became a distant memory. Until that fateful day in December 2024, when an unexpected email turned their world upside down.
Their lost champion had been found. The reunion was raw, emotional, and heartbreaking — the dream that had ended in a nightmare now found an unexpected epilogue.
Trust is Good, Control is Better
In light of this shocking betrayal, Pigeon Boss emphasizes an essential lesson: trust is valuable, but control is essential. The pigeon racing community thrives on mutual respect and shared dedication, but blind trust can be dangerous. For years, G.H. exploited this very trust, turning a role of responsibility into a cover for theft. This case underscores the need for stricter checks, routine inspections, and improved security measures at pigeon clubs.
Pigeon Boss believes that regular control mechanisms protect not only the pigeons but also the integrity of the sport itself. Trust is earned, but vigilance ensures it is preserved. By implementing clear verification protocols, such betrayals can be prevented. It’s not about doubting others — it’s about safeguarding the passion, effort, and dreams of every pigeon fancier.
G.H.’s betrayal cut deep. How could someone entrusted by a community deceive them so mercilessly? What remains is a scar of distrust and a bitter memory of how one man could steal a world of dreams for years.
One traitor, a hundred stolen dreams.
Until the next hopefully more positive blog,
Jan de Wijs
The Real Pigeon Boss
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Disgusting,,pigeon racing is a working mans sport. Today sadly it is,money greed and jealousy. My heart goes out to the victims of this scammer.