Russia detains four in 100M-ruble crypto laundering probe

Published at 2025-12-11 09:00:09

Russian investigators detained four residents of Surgut on Dec. 11, 2025, accusing them of laundering about 100 million rubles through a combination of cryptocurrency transactions and stolen bank cards. Authorities say the suspects used card theft proceeds to buy and move crypto to obscure the origin of funds; they are now facing criminal charges related to money laundering.

The case highlights continued law-enforcement focus on card-to-crypto schemes and the challenges regulators and exchanges face in policing on-ramps that mix fraud and digital assets. Investigators are expected to trace transaction flows and may widen the probe to platforms or intermediaries used to convert stolen funds, underscoring renewed pressure on AML controls across Russia’s payments and crypto ecosystem.

RussiaMoney LaunderingCrypto CrimeSurgutLaw Enforcement

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Indian police arrested nine members of a syndicate on Dec. 14, 2025 for illegally trading bank accounts that were used to carry out multiple cyber fraud schemes. Authorities say the accounts facilitated fraud and helped move illicit proceeds.

IndiaCybersecurityCrypto CrimeFraudLaw Enforcement

Published at 2025-12-14 10:01:20

Operation Kryptolaundry Busts $500M Crypto Laundering Ring in Brazil

Brazil's Federal Police executed more than 24 search and seizure warrants in Operation Kryptolaundry, dismantling a crypto money-laundering network linked to Glaidson Acácio dos Santos, the "Bitcoin Pharaoh". Authorities say the group moved about $500 million in illicit funds since 2021.

BitcoinCryptocurrencyAMLBrazilLaw EnforcementMoney Laundering

Published at 2025-12-14 09:46:37

Kenya's DCI Launches Specialized Unit to Tackle Crypto Scams

Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations has set up a dedicated unit to combat crypto-related fraud after losses reached $43.3 million, and unveiled new regulatory measures aimed at curbing the trend. The move seeks to strengthen enforcement and protect consumers amid rising digital-asset crime.

KenyaLaw EnforcementFraudCryptoDigital AssetsRegulation

Published at 2025-12-13 15:15:09

Russia Moves to Criminalize Illegal Cryptocurrency Mining

Russian authorities plan to introduce criminal penalties for illegal cryptocurrency mining, signaling a tougher enforcement stance. The proposal could lead to arrests and prosecutions once the bill and enforcement rules are defined.

RussiaMiningCryptoRegulationLaw

Published at 2025-12-09 10:16:29

Crypto Miners in Russia’s Caucasus Defy Regional Ban

Local media report that residents of a North Caucasus republic continue mining cryptocurrencies despite a regional ban, causing over 1 billion rubles in damage to power utilities this year. Authorities warn the illegal activity is straining the grid and may trigger tougher enforcement.