THE HAGUE - The Public Prosecution Service in the Netherlands has seized a hotel in Scheveningen and a commercial property in Düsseldorf but is currently keeping the reasons confidential. However, research by Follow the Money reveals that these properties were acquired with dubious Russian money via Curaçao.
It concerns the Andante Hotel in Scheveningen, allegedly purchased by a 'Russian lady,' according to a former night porter. During his time working there, there were various strange incidents, including keys moving on their own and unexplained sounds. However, these eerie events are just the tip of the iceberg.
The ongoing criminal investigation is focused on the money used to purchase the hotel. This money trail starts in Russia and runs through Curaçao to the Netherlands and Germany. The companies that bought the properties are linked to Vadim Blaustein, a former trust director previously covered by Follow the Money.
In 2016, the FIOD (Fiscal Information and Investigation Service) raided Blaustein's trust office in Amersfoort, on suspicion of tax evasion and fraud. The money earned from Blaustein's dubious trade is believed to have been laundered through the purchase of a villa in Amersfoort and the two properties now seized.
Blaustein's involvement in the Scheveningen hotel and the property in Düsseldorf came to light after a search in Curaçao, where documents were found indicating a Russian connection. It involves money from six Russians, shareholders of the Curaçao-based now-dissolved Fitent foundation, who also own Amerian Holding. This company acquired the properties in Scheveningen and Düsseldorf.
The property in Düsseldorf was purchased by Blaustein's ex-wife on behalf of Amerian Germany BV, a subsidiary of Amerian Holding. The purchase of the property is said to have been financed with money from the Russian Vneshprombank, where large-scale fraud was reported.
Despite the seizure of the Andante Hotel, business operations continue under new management. However, the mystery surrounding the lady in the blue dress in the hotel remains unsolved.
The FIOD and the Public Prosecution Service are still investigating the exact origin of the money and the role of the parties involved in this complex case of international money laundering practices.