The Mystery of Karl-Erivan Haub: New Clues Emerge in the Disappearance of the Tengelmann Boss
A Thriller Unfolding in Real Life
The disappearance of Karl-Erivan Haub, the former boss of the Tengelmann Group, has all the makings of a high-stakes thriller. Haub, a charismatic entrepreneur with deep connections to Russia, vanished without a trace in 2018. His mysterious disappearance has left a trail of questions and speculation, with new clues emerging that hint at a possible staged death.
The Last Known Whereabouts
The last confirmed sighting of Haub was on April 7, 2018, captured by a surveillance camera on the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt. The 58-year-old was planning a ski tour in the Valais Alps. Despite an extensive search, one of the largest in Swiss mountain rescue history, Haub’s trail went cold. The search was officially called off in October 2018, and in May 2021, the district court in Cologne declared him officially dead.
New Evidence from Moscow
Recent reports from "Manager Magazin" have shed new light on the case. Photos allegedly showing Haub in Moscow in February 2021 have surfaced, raising the possibility that he staged his own death. The images, though blurry and showing a man in a hat, bear a striking resemblance to Haub. Two private investigators, commissioned by the Tengelmann group, claim to have tracked Haub to a suburb of Moscow using surveillance footage provided by an Israeli-American security service.
The Case for and Against Authenticity
While forensic experts have varying opinions on the authenticity of the photos—one expert puts the likelihood at 99%, another at 85%—there are significant inconsistencies. The raw data from the recordings is missing, making it impossible to verify the time and place of the photos. This raises the possibility that the images could be manipulated or even fake.
Haub’s Russian Connections
Haub’s connections to Russia have long been a point of interest. On the night before his disappearance, he had lengthy phone conversations with Veronika Ermilova, an event manager from St. Petersburg. The two had a history dating back to 2008, with frequent encounters in Sochi and Moscow. Ermilova claimed their relationship was purely professional, but speculation suggests they might have been lovers or that she could have been an agent of the Russian domestic secret service, the FSB.
Business Ventures and Suspicious Deaths
Haub’s business ventures in Russia were extensive. He planned to open 150 branches of the discount brand "plus" in Russia, but the plans never materialized. His dealings involved millions of euros, some of which were allegedly funneled through dubious channels. Oligarch Sergei Grischin, who died in 2023, was a key figure in Haub’s Russian ventures. Grischin’s death, officially attributed to a brain hemorrhage, has been linked to the phenomenon of "sudden Russian death," where several Russian oligarchs and high officials have met suspicious ends.
The Role of the FBI and CIA
Private investigators suggest that Haub, who also holds American citizenship, might have been targeted by American investigative authorities due to his dubious transactions in Russia. The FBI and CIA were reportedly on the scene shortly after Haub’s disappearance, gathering their own intelligence. Haub’s extensive contacts in the highest circles of American and German business and politics have led some to believe he might have used his influence to serve Russian interests.
The Brother’s Stance
Christian Haub, the current CEO of Tengelmann and Karl-Erivan’s brother, has been aware of the photos for some time. He denies their authenticity, claiming the man in the photos is not his brother. If proven otherwise, Christian faces potential legal consequences, including up to three years in prison for false statements.
Key Information Table
| Event | Date | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Last confirmed sighting | April 7, 2018 | Surveillance camera on the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt. |
| Search discontinued | October 2018 | One of the largest in Swiss mountain rescue history. |
| Declared officially dead | May 2021 | By the district court in Cologne. |
| Photos in Moscow | February 2021 | Allegedly showing Haub, but authenticity is disputed. |
| FBI and CIA involvement | Shortly after disappearance | Gathered intelligence on the scene. |
| Christian Haub’s stance | May 2023 | Denies the authenticity of the photos. |
FAQ Section
How did Karl-Erivan Haub disappear?
Karl-Erivan Haub was last seen on April 7, 2018, on the Klein Matterhorn in Zermatt. Despite an extensive search, his trail went cold, and he was officially declared dead in May 2021.
What new evidence has emerged?
Photos allegedly showing Haub in Moscow in February 2021 have surfaced, raising questions about whether he staged his own death.
What are the inconsistencies in the case?
The raw data from the surveillance footage is missing, making it impossible to verify the time and place of the photos. This raises the possibility that the images could be manipulated or fake.
What are the connections to Russia?
Haub had extensive business ventures in Russia and frequent contacts with Russian oligarchs. His disappearance has been linked to suspicious deaths and the phenomenon of "sudden Russian death."
What is the role of the FBI and CIA?
The FBI and CIA were reportedly on the scene shortly after Haub’s disappearance, gathering their own intelligence. Haub’s extensive contacts in the highest circles of American and German business and politics have led to speculation about his potential involvement in serving Russian interests.
Did You Know?
Haub’s disappearance has all the elements of a high-stakes thriller, with connections to Russian oligarchs, suspicious deaths, and extensive business ventures. The case continues to baffle investigators and the public alike.
Pro Tips for Investigative Journalism
When covering high-profile disappearances, it’s crucial to verify all sources and data. The absence of raw data can significantly impact the credibility of the findings, as seen in the Haub case.
Readers’ Questions
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