The investigation began after the FIU-Netherlands and Meld Misdaad Anoniem (Report Crime Anonymously) received reports about a couple from Breda. This couple led a luxurious lifestyle filled with Porsches, designer handbags, and expensive jewelry, but there appeared to be no legitimate source of income.
An analyst at the FIU discovered that the man's sole proprietorship had not generated any turnover for two years, but there was an unexplained influx of crypto money.
During an initial search, financial investigators seized the luxury goods and an initial consignment of cryptocurrency worth €600.000. They also found hardware wallet in a shoe, but they were not possible at that time kraken.
The case took a decisive turn when one of the suspects, shortly after his release, immediately tried to move his remaining crypto balances.
In a second arrest, police managed to outwit the suspect. This time, the wallet's essential PIN code was found. With this code, police were able to secure approximately €2.000.000 worth of cryptocurrency, bringing the total haul to over €2,5 million. According to the police, this action hits criminals where it hurts most: their wallets and their status.
How did the police track down the couple?
Police received reports about the couple via the FIU-Netherlands and Meld Misdaad Anoniem (Report Crime Anonymously). Their luxurious lifestyle aroused suspicion because they had no visible legal source of income.
What did police discover during the first house search?
During the initial search, police seized luxury goods and cryptocurrency worth €600.000. They also found a hardware wallet in a shoe.
What was the deciding factor in this case?
The case took a decisive turn when police found the hardware wallet's PIN during a second arrest. This allowed them to secure another €2.000.000 worth of cryptocurrency.