Aruba Money Laundering Scheme: Nearly €4 Million in Cash and Assets Seized

Oranjestad/The Hague — In a major cross-border money laundering investigation, authorities in Aruba, the Netherlands, and Belgium seized nearly €4 million in cash and assets this week. Five suspects, including three in Aruba, were arrested in connection with the ill-gotten scheme.

Arrests and Cash Seizure in Aruba

On June 23, 2023, the Kingdom Detective Cooperation Team RST discovered €2.8 million stashed away in a meat container at a refrigerated storage facility in Oranjestad, Aruba. Three main suspects – R.H., R.G., and H. van R. – were detained on the same day, with the first two additionally arrested in the Netherlands.

Simultaneous Raids and Seizures

Following the arrests, authorities conducted searches at 11 locations in Aruba, the Netherlands, and Belgium. They discovered over €1.1 million in cash, Rolex watches, cars, motorcycles, and other valuables. In the Netherlands, searches were carried out at three residences and businesses in Roermond, while two sites in Lanklaar, Stokkem, and Bree, Belgium, were searched, yielding bank accounts, computers, and a business administration.

Suspects’ Detention and Extradition

The suspects have been detained for managing, changing, and hiding the illicit funds. Van R. is expected to be extradited to the Netherlands for trial after a June 27 court order. The other two suspects remain in Aruban custody.

Probe’s Origins and International Collaboration

The probe originated on April 13, 2023, following a request from the Aruba Public Prosecutor’s Office, Dutch National Public Prosecutor’s Office, and Dutch police. Previous investigations had suggested money laundering suspicions.

Significant Progress Towards Dismantling Criminal Networks

The international team’s actions represent a substantial step towards dismantling organized criminal networks in the Dutch Caribbean. Local law enforcement highlighted the importance of their continued collaboration with international partners in combating these illegal activities.

Upcoming Updates and Details

Further updates and details of the investigation will be reported in due course. Stay tuned for the latest news from the Dutch Caribbean Legal Portal.