Police Handle 39 Fraud Cases in Groningen Region
Quick operation targets people who help criminals launder money.
In a three-day action called the "car wash," the police and the Public Prosecution Service (OM) dealt with 39 fraud cases in the Groningen region. The operation took place at police stations in Groningen, Winschoten, and Hoogezand, and focused on people involved in financial scams—especially those acting as so-called “money mules.” These are people who let criminals use their bank accounts to move or hide stolen money.
During the action, fifteen people were questioned by the police. Eleven of them were immediately told what they were suspected of and received a sentence: community service between 16 and 40 hours. Two suspects didn’t agree with the penalty and will have to appear in court. Others were ordered to pay money back to the victims. Four more cases need further investigation and will be looked at later.
The suspects are mostly people whose bank accounts were linked to fraud reports. While they may not have committed the fraud themselves, they helped make it possible by sharing their bank details. This type of help makes it easier for criminals to steal and move money.
The police say that this quick way of handling cases helps stop these kinds of crimes. It also gives the police and prosecutors more information about how criminals move money and who else might be involved.
The fraud reports came from four police teams: Ommelanden-Oost, Ommelanden-Midden, Groningen-Centrum, and Groningen-Noord. Victims involved in these cases will be updated about what happens next.
Police are also warning people not to become money mules. Even if someone offers money or gifts in exchange for using your account, it’s illegal and risky. People who help criminals this way can end up with a criminal record, debt, and problems getting loans or a mortgage.
If you’re ever asked to give someone your bank card or withdraw money for them, the police advise you to report it—either directly at 0900–8844 or anonymously at 0800–7000.