Saad de Paak and Dubai Bank: laundering investigation with links to Bolle Jos and Taghi
Muhammad A., known as Saad de Paak, was arrested in Dubai in July. On 9 September, NOS Nieuwsuur reported on his suspected role in an international underground banking network and its Dutch connections.
According to NOS Nieuwsuur, the suspect is 46-year-old Muhammad A., who is suspected of laundering drug proceeds through the Dubai Bank network. Journalists from AD and Follow the Money confirmed the arrest with Spanish police. The international investigation began in 2021, with Dutch police also taking part.
NOS reported, drawing on that journalistic investigation, that A. did business with Jos Leijdekkers, also known as Bolle Jos. His name also surfaced in criminal proceedings against Faissal Taghi, the son of Ridouan Taghi. The report further described suspected cooperation with Edin G. and Raffaele Imperiale.
Europol describes Dubai Bank as a network suspected of financing drug shipments and moving the proceeds. Its public statement says Spain’s Policía Nacional led the operation, which began after the seizure of 1.8 tonnes of cocaine off the Spanish coast. Europol reported 21 arrests, €20 million in identified assets, 48 properties and 121 bank accounts. An important target was arrested in the United Arab Emirates.
