Alongside those charges, Andrew Tate, 36, is also accused of raping one of the victims, while his brother has been charged with inciting others to violence.

The Tate brothers are accused of tricking seven women into sexual exploitation on fake promises of a relationship or marriage - a technique authorities have labelled the "loverboy method".

They are charged alongside two Romanian women, who are accused of being part of the alleged organised crime group.

It is alleged all four formed the group in 2021 to commit human trafficking in Romania and other countries - including the US and UK.

Speaking outside court after his appearance, Andrew Tate thanked supporters from "around the world" adding that he loved Romania.

"I love this country, I'm going to stay here regardless, no matter what, and I look forward to being found innocent at the end of everything," he added.

The former professional kickboxer has repeatedly claimed Romanian prosecutors have no evidence and alleged the case is a political conspiracy designed to silence him.

A spokesperson for the brothers said on Tuesday that they "embrace the opportunity a trial presents to demonstrate their innocence and vindicate their reputation".

The brothers were first arrested at a property in Bucharest in December last year and held in custody until March - when they were released under house arrest.

The court will reconvene on Friday when it will make a decision on their house arrest.

Andrew Tate, who has been based mainly in Romania since 2017, is an online influencer who has amassed millions of followers, particularly among young men.