4.8 million euros! An immigrant family receives money from the state fraudulently
A major fraud scandal has been uncovered in Austria, where authorities revealed a highly organized criminal network that allegedly defrauded the state of €4.8 million. The investigation began in mid-2024 after suspicious financial transactions raised alarms.
According to investigators, the network operated through more than 200 Scheinfirmen (shell companies), which were used to fake employment and income records. These companies allowed the group to illegally claim tax refunds and manipulate the financial system on a large scale.
The companies were reportedly set up using Strohmann (straw men) from countries such as the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, and Bulgaria. These individuals were paid small amounts to register as company directors or employees, despite having no real involvement in business activities.
Authorities believe that around ten key أفراد from Pakistan, Syria, Afghanistan, and Morocco controlled the operation. They allegedly withdrew the fraudulently obtained funds in cash or transferred them to personal accounts. In addition, the group is accused of abusing Familiennachzug (family reunification) rules and using fake documents or sham marriages to gain access to social benefits.
Several shocking cases have emerged, including a woman who reportedly increased her maternity payments and another who obtained expensive medical treatment through false employment registration. In one case, a Syrian national allegedly secured citizenship using forged salary documents, with revocation proceedings now underway.
On March 25, police carried out a large-scale raid across Vienna and Lower Austria. Authorities arrested multiple suspects, including two Pakistanis, an Indian, and a German with Iraqi background, while several others were questioned as part of the ongoing investigation.
During 16 house searches, investigators seized €186,000 in cash, around 100 mobile phones, IT equipment, documents, and bank cards. Officials say more than 200 individuals are connected to the case, describing the structure as highly professional and complex.
Officials, including Interior Minister غيرهارد كارنر and Finance Minister ماركوس مارترباور, praised the coordinated efforts of law enforcement agencies. Authorities emphasized that combating tax fraud remains a top priority, as such crimes harm both the economy and honest taxpayers.