ZDF Frontal
Overburdened Municipalities - On the Trail of Social Welfare Fraud
Municipalities are sounding the alarm: They are increasingly confronted with potential misuse of social benefits. The focus is on structures that lure EU citizens from Eastern Europe to Germany. Many then live here in precarious conditions in overcrowded apartments – often at exorbitant rents.
At the same time, pressure is mounting on authorities because individual cases of receiving citizen's benefits, child benefits, or sick pay reinforce suspicions of organized fraud. Municipalities are therefore demanding stricter regulations and more options to prevent abuse.
Iran War and Oil Price Shock - Fuel Discount as an Expensive Election Gift?
Since the beginning of the Iran War, the price of oil has risen significantly. As a result, fuel prices at the pump are also skyrocketing. With the upcoming state elections in mind, some politicians are calling for a revival of the fuel discount.
The pressure on the federal government is growing. But economists warn: A fuel discount to cushion the impact of higher fuel prices would be a costly mistake and would create perverse incentives.
Gang War in Berlin Escalates - Fight Against Organized Crime
Violent clashes between rival gangs are increasingly causing insecurity and fear in Berlin. The underlying causes are power struggles over territory in the drug trade and extortion rackets, primarily aimed at intimidating business owners.
Armed groups are increasingly taking their conflicts openly to the streets – shooting at people, vehicles, and buildings, or attacking businesses. Investigators are now speaking of a new dimension of threat posed by internationally networked organized crime structures. "frontal" investigates.
Agricultural Subsidy Fraud - Misuse of EU Millions
Agricultural subsidy fraud occurs repeatedly in member states of the European Union. It is estimated that up to 45 million euros in EU agricultural aid are misappropriated annually. Investigations by the European Public Prosecutor's Office also show that in some cases national authorities or state bodies also play a role.
Broadcasting on 10th of March 2026 at 09.00pm on ZDF
Music: POPVIRUS Library