Financial Crime World

Dutch Authorities Probe Alleged Money Laundering at Defunct Netherlands Antilles Bank: Ties to Nigerian Fraudster

Stolen Identity of a Roman Catholic Nun Used to Launder Funds Through FCIB

WILLEMSTAD, Netherlands Antilles — Dutch authorities are investigating allegations that a Nigerian advance fee fraudster used the stolen identity of a Roman Catholic nun to launder more than $2 million through the now-defunct First Curacao International Bank (FCIB) in the Netherlands Antilles.

Nigerian National’s Advance Fee Fraud Scheme

  • At least 19 victims duped in advance fee scams
  • Stolen identity of a US-based Roman Catholic nun used
  • Funds laundered through defunct FCIB

A senior Dutch law enforcement official, speaking on condition of anonymity, confirmed the investigation but declined to reveal the name of the Nigerian suspect (Sources: OffshoreAlert).

Ongoing Investigation into Alleged Misappropriation of Client Funds by John Deuss

Deuss, who controlled FCIB from his base in Bermuda, is also under investigation for the misappropriation of client funds during the bank’s control from 2004 to 2008 (Court Document: “fraud and money laundering” by John Deuss, Martina Deuss, and FCIB).

The Alleged Criminal Activities

  • Suspected theft of over $191 million from the bank
  • VAT scams proceeds laundered

Last December, an anonymous tip-off website, Insider Talking, reported that the UK Government was attempting to recover funds frozen in FCIB, and that the Bermuda-based bank was planning to repatriate the funds. Additionally, a Nevis corporation, Scipio LLC, had taken legal action against the Central Bank of the Netherlands Antilles for refusing to return depositors’ funds (Insider Talking).

Global Scrutiny on Netherlands Antilles’ Financial Sector

The allegations against FCIB and John Deuss have cast a shadow over the Netherlands Antilles’ financial sector, which has long been under scrutiny due to its reputation as a preferred destination for money laundering and tax evasion (UK Government: concern over corruption and fraud in Bermuda).

UK Government’s Response

  • Expressed concern over corruption and fraud in Bermuda
  • Called for an investigation by the UK Foreign Affairs Committee

No Comment from John Deuss and FCIB

Despite the allegations, representatives for John Deuss and FCIB declined to comment on the matter. (End of Article)