This seems to be the typical German way, simulators are costing too much.
In defense of my fellow countrymen: Just look at this forum. Every second thread is about "where can I get the cheapest type rating / sim training for this or that aircraft". It does not seem to be typical of germans only!
So potentially the SFI, HoT and the TRE as well as any involved 'student' will/should face criminal proceedings now in addition to losing their licences?
Criminal charges yes (for falsifying documents and endangering the safety of aircraft, which is a felony) but pulling someone's license is much more difficult than it seems. After all, some of these guys have been flying for several years now without incident, passed a couple of LPCs and OPCs in the meantime and obviously didn't harm or endanger anyone. Mind you, all over FAA land you don't even need to be typerated to fly on a Global Express RHS...
If they spend the money they saved on their ratings for a good aviation lawyer, they have realistic chances of keeping their licenses - a very good aviation lawyer might even preserve their typeratings. And if they can prove they were drunk at the time they signed the application form for their rating, they may even get away without a fine, because here in Germany you can't be held responsible for things you do while intoxicated
