The suspected gunman in the robbery of shisha boss Hafed Merkikou (29) in Geleen was not initially believed to have been involved in the plans for the robbery.

At least that is what suspect Karim S. (24) from Stein, who together with Dennis V. (40) from Heerlen, broke into Merkikou's home on Beatrixlaan in Geleen on the night of February 7-8.

Dropped out

The robbery was initially to be carried out by planner Karim S. and his 29-year-old comrade Carlo R. from Heerlen. The latter apparently did not dare to participate in the robbery of Merkikou in the hours before the robbery. The Heerlen man himself dropped out but arranged for Dennis V. to be picked up for the job.

Cab driver

That was the job of Desmond H. (28) from Maastricht, who played cab driver for the co-accused between Maastricht, Geleen and Heerlen for a fee the hours before the robbery. Desmond H. was released yesterday, the public prosecutor and lawyer confirmed.

Substantial criminal record

The police file on the case shows that all suspects have substantial criminal records and know their way around the criminal environment. They know each other mainly from the time they were together in the Sittard prison the Geerhorst.