YEREVAN (CoinChapter.com) — Russian and Belarusian authorities arrested 60 people in a coordinated raid on a crypto exchange accused of being a front for a money-laundering operation. The operation took place in the Moscow region and Minsk, targeting both private residences and businesses.
Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs official Irina Volk reported that the operation involved around 80 separate raids. The alleged criminal group is accused of defrauding citizens by pretending to offer crypto trading, commodities, and foreign exchange currencies.
Russian Raids Seize Millions and Equipment, Detain Suspected Crypto Ring Leaders
During the raids, authorities seized over 8 million rubles ($88,900) in cash and 23 million rubles ($255,560) in foreign currency. They also confiscated 30 units of computer equipment, mobile devices, and accounting documentation. These items were found in locations linked to the suspected network.
One of the alleged masterminds and two accomplices were detained in the Moscow region. The Ministry of Internal Affairs released footage showing law enforcement entering several homes as part of the operation.
Russian and Belarusian Authorities Investigate Alleged Crypto Money Laundering Scheme
The Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs and the Belarusian Investigative Committee are leading the investigation. In Belarus, authorities plan to charge the suspects with fraud. The group allegedly ran five call centers in Minsk to conduct their operations.
Officials claim the crypto exchange laundered money stolen from Russian and Belarusian citizens. The group reportedly exploited the anonymity of cryptocurrency transactions to conceal their activities.
Russia Targets Clooney Foundation, Crypto Exchanges, and Alleged Ukraine Funding
Russian police report a rise in crypto-related crime, a trend echoed by Belarusian officials. Recently, security forces in Russia arrested several individuals accused of using crypto to send funds to the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Russian prosecutors have labeled The Clooney Foundation for Justice, a U.S. non-profit, as “undesirable.” They claim the foundation operates on a “Hollywood scale” to discredit Moscow. Moreover, the organization, co-founded by George and Amal Clooney, focuses on global justice issues. This action further underscores the ongoing tensions between Russia and Western groups critical of the Kremlin.
Crypto exchanges in Russia remain unregulated. However, top officials have urged Moscow to create a state-run exchange to support industrial miners and international trade firms in converting coins to fiat.
