Duisburg Investigation Uncovers Widespread Child Benefit Fraud

Authorities halted €1.2 million in future payments and are seeking to recover €177,000 in fraudulent claims after a large-scale operation in a problem high-rise.

A massive October 2024 raid involving 400 officials targeted the 'Weißer Riese,' a deteriorated high-rise in Duisburg known for social challenges.
Authorities identified 59 cases of child benefit fraud where children were falsely registered as residents, leading to the suspension of payments.
Future fraudulent payments totaling €1.2 million were prevented, and efforts are underway to recover €177,000 already disbursed.
The operation revealed that only 600 of 1,400 registered residents were present during the inspection, highlighting significant irregularities.
The 'Weißer Riese' high-rise, a long-standing social hotspot, has faced issues such as safety concerns and poor living conditions, with ongoing plans for its demolition in 2025.

Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung

Westdeutsche Allgemeine Zeitung