German authorities have reportedly seized “Pascha,” Europe’s largest brothel, in Cologne. The action comes amid serious allegations against the owners, including money laundering through this establishment.
Major development in human trafficking case
In a dramatic turn of events, “Pascha,” Europe’s largest brothel in Cologne, has reportedly been provisionally seized by the state of North Rhine-Westphalia. According to a report by “Bild” newspaper, measures were taken on August 8 that severely restrict the property rights of the owners. This drastic decision stems from investigations into a human trafficking ring allegedly using the mega-brothel for money laundering.
The Düsseldorf public prosecutor’s office clarified that the seizure is a temporary measure. The state can only permanently confiscate the property after a court order. Due to this action, the current owners of “Pascha” are not authorized to sell or alter the property, including the pink-colored building in Cologne’s Ehrenfeld district.
Background of the state’s action
The state’s intervention follows extensive investigations that culminated in a large-scale raid in May. Authorities dismantled an alleged human trafficking ring accused of illegally bringing wealthy Chinese citizens to Germany. According to a ZDF investigation, the group charged up to 360,000 euros per person and allegedly laundered their profits through “Pascha.”
The renowned brothel, operating since 1972, was purchased in March 2021 by a German company for 11 million euros. The company is reportedly owned by a Chinese businesswoman and several German lawyers. Officially run by André Wienstroth, “Pascha” reopened on March 18, 2022, after the COVID-19 pandemic. The 51-year-old extensively renovated the brothel and the hotel on the ninth floor.
Legal and political implications
During the raids, ten individuals were arrested, and approximately 1.2 million euros in cash were seized. Two main suspects were identified: lawyers aged 42 and 46 from the Cologne area. They are under investigation for human trafficking, bribery, and corruption, along with employees of several authorities in Cologne and the surrounding area.
The case has also exposed political connections. The two suspected lawyers made significant donations to CDU (Christian Democratic Union) local chapters – nearly 13,000 and 30,000 euros. They also each donated 5,000 euros to the federal CDU and its youth organization. The local chapters have publicly disclosed these donations and pledged to cooperate with investigators.
As of now, “Pascha” operator Wienstroth has not commented on the situation. One suspect is reportedly being sought with an international arrest warrant, while another is in pre-trial detention.
