AMSTERDAM, PARAMARIBO - The Dutch Public Prosecution Service (OM) has initiated legal proceedings against three Surinamese banks for their suspected involvement in laundering 19.5 million euros of illicit funds, believed to stem from drug trafficking activities in Suriname. The funds were confiscated earlier at Schiphol Airport. Hakrinbank, De Surinaamsche Bank, and Finabank have all refuted the allegations and are seeking the return of the seized money through judicial channels.
The OM's investigation is concentrated on these three financial institutions, recently summoning them for interrogation, though they have yet to respond. The case centers on the transport of 19.5 million euros in cash in 2018, facilitated by the Central Bank of Suriname, destined for Hong Kong.
During a layover at Schiphol Airport, customs officials intercepted the funds, which were subsequently seized by the Fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD), based on suspicions from Dutch authorities that the money originated from drug-related activities in Suriname. According to OM inquiries, multiple individuals in Suriname made substantial cash deposits, with one notable businessman depositing 1 million euros on his own.
The three banks and the Central Bank of Suriname maintain that the funds are legitimate and have contested their seizure in court proceedings.
The outcome of this legal battle will be closely monitored as the prosecution pursues clarity regarding the origins and legitimacy of the seized 19.5 million euros.