The third hearing on the art theft mainly revolves around the undercover operation by the police, writes RTV Drenthe. Before the case is dealt with substantively, W. En Z.’s lawyers first want to hear David Weel, then Minister of Justice and Security. About the fact that the full identities of those two suspects were shared a day after their arrest as a means of pressure to get them to talk.
In an interview with NOS, the minister said on camera that the suspects had a choice: either tell where the loot is, or their full names and photos will be published. Blackmail, according to Z.’s lawyer: “This implies that they know where the loot is. Then it is established that they are guilty.”
Lawyers feel they are being watched
Several lawyers want to know whether they are being tapped in this case. Ronald van der Graaf, W.’s lawyer, says he feels he is being spied on. “The AIVD and MIVD have no obligation to report. How can you prepare a case if you cannot communicate freely with the client?” Nico Meijering, who is assisting 21-year-old JB, also wants to know whether he can ‘speak completely in confidence with his client’.