Scammed in The Hague? How a Private Investigator Can Help

Fraud in the international city — more sophisticated than you think

The Hague, as the seat of government and home to numerous embassies and international organisations, attracts a wide range of people. That diversity is a strength, but it also makes the city attractive to fraudsters who hide behind fake identities, foreign corporate structures, or impressive stories. From investment fraud through fake platforms to romance scams on dating apps, from rogue contractors in Loosduinen to identity theft around Centraal Station — the methods vary, but the result is always the same: financial loss and a feeling of powerlessness.

Many victims hesitate to take action. Shame plays a significant role, as does the belief that nothing can be done. When you file a report with the Haaglanden police, the investigation often remains limited due to capacity constraints. That does not mean you are powerless. A fraud investigation by a professional agency can identify the perpetrator and secure evidence for legal action.

Why speed is essential in fraud cases

Digital traces fade quickly. Websites go offline, bank accounts are emptied, phone numbers change, and social media profiles disappear. The first 48 to 72 hours after discovering the fraud are often decisive. Additionally, fraudsters rarely stop at one victim — by acting quickly, you protect not only yourself but potentially help others as well.

What a fraud investigation involves

A fraud investigation aims at three objectives: identifying the perpetrator, reconstructing their methods, and securing evidence. The methods include:

• Digital trace investigation: analysis of email addresses, IP addresses, domain names, and payment details
• OSINT research: systematic searching of public sources, social media, business registers, and international databases
• Network analysis: mapping persons, accounts, and legal entities to unravel the fraud structure
• Financial trace investigation: tracing money flows through bank statements or payment platforms
• Documentation: compiling a complete dossier for the police, prosecution service, or the District Court of The Hague

SAJ Recherche operates with a POB licence within the Wpbr and GDPR frameworks. The final report meets the requirements courts set for privately gathered evidence.

Legal options after investigation

With a thorough report, several avenues become available:

• Strengthening your police report with evidence, increasing the chance of prosecution under Article 326 of the Dutch Criminal Code
• Civil proceedings at the District Court of The Hague to recover losses
• Summary proceedings to seize the perpetrator’s assets
• Complaints to regulators such as the AFM or ACM

Practical example

An entrepreneur in The Hague invested a substantial sum through an apparently professional platform. After months, the platform became unreachable. SAJ Recherche traced the operator through digital forensics, established their identity, and documented the fraud structure. The victim’s solicitor placed attachments on the suspect’s bank accounts, enabling a significant portion of the losses to be recovered.

Being scammed happens — staying silent is a choice

Move past the shame, put the facts on the table. A professional investigation gives you control and opens the path to recovering your losses.

Have you been scammed and want to know what can still be done? Get in touch with SAJ Recherche for a confidential consultation.