The bicycle shop came into view after a person was previously arrested who was in possession of five stolen bicycles. At the shop, more than 25 electric cargo bicycles were seized on February 5. Several other bicycles were also seized. An investigation by the Forensic Investigation Automotive department of the police unit in The Hague revealed that 19 cargo bicycles were stolen.

The detectives are investigating the case, and the Vehicle Crime Insurance Bureau collaborated with them. It turned out that a warehouse in Aalsmeer was also involved. On Friday, May 23, police from Leiden South and Police Uithoorn conducted raids both at the warehouse in Aalsmeer and at the shop on Zoeterwoudeseweg. A total of 28 electric cargo bicycles and 65 electric bicycles were seized, which are suspected to have been rebranded. This means that the stolen bicycles are provided with a new frame number. The sale value of these seized bicycles amounted to over €160,000.

At this moment, no arrests have been made, and a criminal investigation is ongoing against the owner of the shop. The police are preparing an administrative report for the municipality. This can, in addition to a criminal follow-up, lead to administrative measures against the owner of the business.
 

Signals of Money Laundering

Money laundering is a form of undermining: conducting transactions to hide the origin of illegally obtained money or goods. It involves money from criminal activities such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, theft, social and fiscal fraud. But also, as in this case, making money from the sale of stolen goods is considered money laundering. The money is often used to fund an expensive lifestyle and spent on things like cars, houses, expensive clothing, or accessories. With laundered money, criminals can also gain influence over individuals, businesses, and legal sectors. A serious threat to the economy, taken seriously by the police, the Public Prosecution Service, and other partners.