Dominique Alderweireld, known as ‘Dodo la Saumure’, dies at 77

Dominique Alderweireld, widely known by the nickname ‘Dodo la Saumure’, has died in Tournai, Belgium, at the age of 77. His death was confirmed by his former lawyer and his partner following a period of failing health caused by heart failure.

A French national who operated several brothels and hostess bars in Belgium, Alderweireld gained international notoriety due to his involvement in the ‘Carlton affair’ in Lille, France. This high-profile case involved allegations of aggravated pimping and linked several prominent figures, including former IMF chief Dominique Strauss-Kahn, to the use of prostitutes at the Carlton Hotel. While Alderweireld was acquitted in the French proceedings in 2015, he had previously received a five-year suspended sentence for pimping from a Belgian appeals court in 2014.

Born in Annœullin, France, Alderweireld was a polarizing figure known for his provocative actions, such as naming one of his clubs ‘DSK’. In his later years, he reportedly faced significant financial hardship and housing instability.