FIOD investigates multi-million euro COVID-19 testing fraud

The Dutch Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD) conducted searches on September 4 across various locations in the Netherlands and abroad as part of a multi-million euro fraud investigation. The investigation focuses on companies that operated COVID-19 testing sites in the northern Netherlands through Tunica Trading.

Authorities seized data carriers, administrative records, bank accounts, and real estate. Reports indicate that the Public Prosecution Service has seized properties belonging to Tunica director Ritske C., physician Eva V., and entrepreneur Oubaid B. The suspected fraud allegedly involved the use of a temporary employment agency, Med-Jobs, to issue false invoices to facilitate the scheme.

The investigation, led by the Functioneel Parket, follows previous scrutiny regarding whether personnel costs for the 'Testen voor Toegang' program, managed by Stichting Open Nederland (SON), were legitimate. Concerns had previously been raised regarding tens of thousands of so-called standby hours billed during 2021.