Frits Van Eerd's Money Laundering Trial: Key Moments and Allegations

Allegations Against Frits Van Eerd

Two years after the police and fiscal investigative service FIOD raided Frits Van Eerd's home, the trial against the former head of the Jumbo supermarket chain commenced today. He is suspected of repeatedly engaging in money laundering involving significant amounts. Van Eerd was absent from the court in Assen this afternoon. His lawyer learned that the former top executive is officially suspected of concealing received gifts, forgery, and habitual money laundering. A conviction could lead to a lengthy prison sentence.

Jumbo's Growth under Van Eerd

Van Eerd took the helm of the family business Jumbo in 2002. Under his leadership, the supermarket chain experienced rapid growth, including the acquisitions of C1000 and Super de Boer. Beyond business, he is an avid sports enthusiast and motorsport participant, investing Jumbo's resources into sponsorship deals.

Connections to Criminal Activities

Through his sports dealings, Van Eerd became connected to Drenthe car dealer Theo E., a key suspect in this case. E. is not only the team leader of a motorsport team but also involved in murky dealings. He has a prior conviction for money laundering and is alleged to have ties to organized crime.

Seized Assets and Gifts

The prosecution claims that E. implicated Van Eerd in his money laundering activities. Evidence shows that €448,000 in cash was discovered during searches at Van Eerd's properties, including a significant portion hidden in a safe and a refrigerator. Furthermore, he received various expensive gifts from E., such as a low-loader for transporting cars, six luxury toolboxes, and several motocross bikes. In return, he allegedly facilitated sponsorships for sports teams worth hundreds of thousands of euros.

• Trial began today, focusing on serious allegations against Van Eerd.
• Cash and luxury gifts seized during police investigation.
• Connections with known criminals complicate the case.