An Amsterdam resident and two men from Assendelft were arrested today because they are suspected of involvement in illegal practices within taxi companies, such as evading one million euros in taxes.
In addition, money laundering and forgery were committed at the companies when applying for 290,000 euros of corona support.
The suspects (29, 31 and 33 years old) came into the picture during a large-scale investigation in which the FIOD, the Human Environment and Transport Inspectorate, the Amsterdam police and the Royal Military Police worked together. It is unclear what their precise role would have been.
Search
In addition, five homes and four business premises were searched in the Amsterdam area. During the searches, cars, so-called ‘asset objects’ and administration were seized.
The case came to light after both the FIOD and the Marechaussee received suspicious signals from the taxi companies. For example, the Marechaussee reported to the FIOD that taxi drivers who committed an offense surprisingly often worked for the same companies.
Strange transactions
Banks saw that the same companies were making strange transactions, according to research by the FIOD. The companies’ multi-million turnover was often transferred to the private and business bank accounts of those involved. In addition, money went to accounts abroad and part of the money was withdrawn in cash.
The investigation now shows that a total of one million euros in taxes have been evaded. That money was then allegedly laundered. Part of the taxi drivers’ salaries are also said to have been paid out of sight of the tax authorities.
The total extent of the alleged fraud has not yet been investigated, the FIOD said. The service does not rule out more arrests and seizures.