In September 2024, the investigation into the five individuals began. They include a 35-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman from Eindhoven, a 35-year-old man and a 27-year-old woman from Rotterdam, and a 23-year-old man from Weert. The fraudulent plumbers presented themselves as the savior in need but then often presented an enormous bill for which the work was either not performed or performed very poorly. Not infrequently, a lot of pressure was exerted to pay the inflated bill immediately. After victims had paid, the plumbers disappeared without a trace and were no longer reachable.
Cars, jewelry, cash, and bank accounts seized.
That this method of fraud is very lucrative was evident from the items found during searches in various properties. Among other things, two cars from the more expensive segment, expensive jewelry, and a cash amount were seized. Various bank accounts containing significant sums of money were also seized. Furthermore, a crypto wallet was confiscated.
By seizing criminally obtained assets and/or valuable items, criminals are hit where it hurts them, namely in their wallets. This way, they gain no benefit from their actions, and it is made clear that crime does not pay.
Both women have since been released but remain suspects in the investigation. The three men are still in custody.
Are you being pressured or intimidated?
Do not call a service provider without a clear, previously agreed price. Do not automatically click on the top Google advertisement and check whether the company has a Chamber of Commerce registration and real reviews. Preferably choose a local craftsman or someone you know through others. If you are being pressured or intimidated, do not pay and call the police immediately, as intimidation or threats are punishable.
Ask for time to think or say that you first need to call someone for consultation. Never pay cash or via payment requests without a receipt or invoice. Take the time to do thorough research on the company you are calling. Have you become a victim anyway? Always file a report. Every report helps to stop these scammers.