The trial of former professional footballer Hiannick K. and his wife Christina began on Monday at the Essen regional court.
According to the indictment, the 35-year-old Congolese allegedly pretended to be killed in a car accident in Kinshasa in early 2016.
Just a few months earlier, K. had taken out life insurance for 1.2 million euros.
The sum was paid to Christina K. at the end of 2016.
Pure burger
Political correspondent in North Rhine-Westphalia.
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The Congolese, who was considered a young talent, had once played together with Manuel Neuer in the A-youth of Schalke 04, was later a member of the second team and ended his career at VfB Hüls.
After the alleged death of Hiannick K., former clubmates were deeply affected.
In 2018, K. appeared at the German embassy in Kinshasa and stated that he had been kidnapped in January 2016 while traveling inland.
In July, the Essen public prosecutor brought charges against Hiannick and Christina K.
While the former professional footballer did not want to provide any information about the start of the trial on Monday, his wife had her defense lawyer inform that she had “never shown any criminal behavior”.
The Essen regional court has set four trial days until November 16 for the trial.