A Web of Deceit: Teh Victims of Albert‘s Fraud
Alberto’s investigation reveals a pattern of financial devastation allegedly caused by Albert, who is accused of defrauding friends and family out of millions of euros. The investigation began with Demi, Albert’s cousin, who claims she lost over 60,000 euros after being told her money woudl be invested in a hotel construction project in France. Alberto’s inspection of the purported investment site revealed only a dilapidated building, described as “more like a haunted house.”
The impact of Albert’s alleged actions extends beyond family. Irene and Ben, a retired couple who were clients of Albert’s former real estate agency, report losing thousands of euros, forcing them to drastically alter their lifestyle. “There’s no holiday temporarily,” Irene stated, while her daughter, Ellen, expressed concern over her mother’s declining health, noting a meaningful weight loss in the past year.
The alleged fraud also targeted vulnerable individuals. Two sisters revealed their deceased parents entrusted Albert with over 60,000 euros, leaving their mother needing to borrow money from relatives to cover funeral expenses.
Victims estimate the total amount of defrauded funds to be substantial. Henk, a resident of Albert’s village, believes Albert has defrauded individuals out of “between thirty and forty million” euros, claiming knowledge of at least four to five tons worth of financial loss within the community.
even Albert’s own brother, Gerrit, fell victim to the alleged scheme, along with his colleagues and friends. The betrayal deeply affected Gerrit, who received a letter from a lawyer accusing him of fraud while attending a memorial service for a colleague’s son. ”that hurt me so much,” he said, visibly distressed.
Alberto eventually confronted Albert, who appeared dismissive and unconcerned about the outstanding debts. When pressed about money owed to family members, Albert responded negatively, demanding to know who was claiming he owed them money.
Despite the confrontation and subsequent investigations by the police and the fiscal Intelligence and Investigation Service (FIOD),victims have yet to recover their funds. Albert was convicted of tax fraud, receiving a sentence of 240 hours of community service and an eight-month suspended prison sentence.
Alberto expressed skepticism regarding albert’s claim to be “working hard” to resolve his financial affairs, a sentiment seemingly justified by the continued lack of restitution for the victims.
Undercover in the Netherlands continues next Thursday at 8:30 PM on SBS6.