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Authorities detain two individuals for suspected coronavirus and flood assistance scam.

Cologne authorities have detained two members suspected of being part of an eight-person fraud group that reportedly gained hundreds of thousands of euros through illegitimate coronavirus and flood relief efforts.

During the raid, the Cologne police confiscated gold, coins and a luxury car, among other things
During the raid, the Cologne police confiscated gold, coins and a luxury car, among other things

Police Conduct Raid in Cologne - Authorities detain two individuals for suspected coronavirus and flood assistance scam.

Two individuals, aged 57 and 23, have been arrested by the Cologne police on suspicion of illegally obtaining hundreds of thousands of euros in COVID-19 relief and flood aid. Along with tax authorities and the support of Eurojust, the officers conducted raids on 21 locations across Germany and Poland on Tuesday. In total, there are eight individuals involved in the case.

The suspected duo is believed to have applied for over 1.1 million euros in COVID-19 aid between March 2021 and April 2022, with only 320,000 euros actually received. The remaining amount was allegedly sent to Polish bank accounts through fake business ties. They also allegedly applied for flood damage relief of 1.2 million euros after the disaster in western Germany in July 2021, even though they didn't suffer any losses. Out of this amount, 972,000 euros were given to them.

Cologne Raid: Gold, Coins, and Luxury Cars Seized

The authorities suspect the individuals of committing commercial fraud and money laundering. During the raid, the police confiscated high-end graphics cards, gold bars, coin collections, approximately 75,000 euros worth of bank funds, a luxury vehicle, and expensive handbags. Warrants for the arrest of the two prime suspects have been issued.

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The raid in Cologne was supported by tax authorities and Eurojust from various locations in Bavaria and North Rhine-Westphalia. This fraud involving millions of euros is believed to be orchestrated by a gang of men. The public prosecutor's office in Hesse is now handling the case. Despite the ongoing investigation, the duo continues to evade charges related to the Coronavirus aid scam. The seized luxury items, including cars, handbags, and high-value coins, are evidence in the ongoing police investigation. The police and the public prosecutor's office are working together to dismantle this fraudster gang.

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