The large-scale investigation team of about 20 detectives, charged with this investigation since June 2022, still works closely with Interpol, Europol, other European countries and even worldwide.
Attention
“The research still receives a great deal of international attention. Both from the media, but especially from the international art world. Especially with a view to the next edition of this major art fair, which will take place again this month. We are doing everything we can to solve this brutal robbery. This research has an unprecedented international component. All information that is collected abroad is processed through requests for legal assistance, and that takes time. It is a long-term investigation, “but we are still confident that this case can be solved and the suspects will be apprehended and prosecuted,” said the head of the investigation.
Research
Under the direction of Europol, the investigation involves cooperation with several European countries where similar robberies have taken place. There are also contacts between the investigation team and the authorities from the relevant Balkan countries. It was previously indicated that the investigation focused on the analysis of available footage, witness statements, forensic traces, escape routes, places of residence and escape vehicles.
This also applied to the tips that came in following a broadcast of the national investigation program ‘Opsporing.nl’ in the summer of 2022.
“The detailed investigation of this information often resulted in new leads, which were also investigated. If only to rule things out so that a certain direction or track did not have to be followed any further. That also took time. But all the information together now means that the investigation now focuses on a specific group of suspects from the Balkans. That is an important starting point for us,” explains the research leader.
Found jewelry
Not only are there suspects, the investigation team is now also investigating a piece of jewelery found. It has since been established that this piece of jewelery was stolen during the robbery. “This is not about the (well-known) large yellow diamond,” says the research leader. “But with the discovery of this piece of jewelry, the research team can take another big step in the investigation.” No further details and information can be provided about where this part of the loot was found and by whom.
Reward
The research bureau of the insurance company has already offered a reward of 500,000 euros. The police and the Public Prosecution Service have no further involvement in the awarding of this reward. The relevant office is responsible for this. There are good contacts between the Public Prosecution Service, the police and the investigation agency.
Tips and information
It has already been called upon to pass on tips or information that has not yet been shared with the police. This can be done via 0800-6070 or anonymously via 0800-7000.