Bielefeld court begins trial over 20 million euro fraud

A criminal trial has commenced at the Bielefeld Regional Court involving seven defendants accused of systematic tax evasion and fraud. Prosecutors allege the group engaged in coordinated activities to defraud the state and social security funds over an extended period.

The total estimated damage is approximately 20 million euros. The indictment claims the defendants acted professionally to circumvent legal payment obligations to the state and social insurance providers, including pension, health, and unemployment insurance. Such actions are noted for placing a significant burden on the social security system.