The Hague law enforcement operation uncovers 1.8 million euros in tax debt

A large-scale law enforcement operation in the center of The Hague on Friday evening uncovered a wide range of violations, including the sale of illegal cigarettes, snus, and vapes. During inspections of ten hospitality businesses, authorities found irregularities, including a supermarket liquor store that was immediately closed due to an invalid alcohol license.

Tax authorities inspected 35 vehicles regarding unpaid motor vehicle tax, identifying a total outstanding tax debt of more than 1.8 million euros, of which over 30,000 euros was collected on the spot. Traffic controls resulted in 30 drivers receiving fines, including offenses for driving under the influence. Additionally, a taxi driver received over 2,000 euros in fines for operating an unregistered vehicle without a taximeter and violating labor and rest time regulations.

Other enforcement actions included fines for illegal drug use, alcohol consumption in public, and begging. Police also seized a knife and a balaclava, and identified one individual who had been a fugitive since 2018.