Three days, three locations, four basic teams. The result: 39 fraud cases handled by the police and the Public Prosecution Service.
This is the outcome of the so-called ‘washing street’, recently organized by the police and the Public Prosecution Service, in collaboration with probation services. In a relatively short time, a large number were heard regarding their possible involvement in fraud cases. It concerns individuals whose account numbers have come up in reports of fraud. The suspect is not always behind the fraud scheme itself. In most cases, it involves money laundering, where the suspect acts as a so-called ‘money mule’. Their account number is made available to the criminal.
Community service, summons, and damages
In offices in Winschoten, Hoogezand, and Groningen, fifteen suspects were interrogated. Eleven of them were immediately informed of what they were suspected of and what the Public Prosecution Services decision is in their case. A number received community service, ranging from 16 to 40 hours, and 2 suspects were summoned after they decided not to agree with the proposed penalty. Additionally, some suspects had to pay damages.
In total, this followed up on 39 reports of fraud, made in the basic teams Ommelanden-Oost, -Midden, Groningen-Centrum, and Groningen-Noord. For four other suspects, additional research was needed after the interrogation. These cases will be handled at a later time. The victims are informed by the Public Prosecution Service about the handling.
Disrupting criminal processes
The aim of the washing street is to stop such criminal practices. Although a money mule may only have a facilitating role in some cases, prosecuting these individuals contributes to disrupting the criminal process. Through close collaboration and rapid handling like this, many cases can be dealt with in a short time. Additionally, the police and Public Prosecution Service gain more insight into criminal money flows and potential other suspects. If you have information about people who may be making their accounts available to criminals or are otherwise involved in fraud practices, please share this with the police. This can be done via 0900 – 88 44, but of course also always anonymously via 0800 – 7000.
Do not become a money mule
You make your bank account available in exchange for money or expensive items. It seems too good to be true, and you end up with a cold reality. You facilitate fraudsters, and your chances of being caught are highest. You are always traceable, with all the consequences, such as not being able to get a mortgage or falling into debt. Therefore, do not become a money mule! Never give your debit card away and never withdraw money on behalf of someone else. If you are approached for this, contact the police, which can also be done anonymously.