In a significant crackdown on illicit online activities, gardaí have seized cryptocurrency valued at approximately €6.5 million in Dublin. The operation, targeting darknet markets and money laundering, led to the arrest of three individuals.
The seized digital assets include popular cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Monero. This marks one of the largest hauls in the country’s ongoing battle against cybercrime.
The arrests were the culmination of a long-running investigation into the use of cryptocurrency for illegal transactions on the dark web. Gardaí have been closely monitoring these activities, which often involve the sale of illegal goods and services.
Detective Chief Superintendent Pat Lordan, head of the Garda National Economic Crime Bureau, praised the operation’s success, emphasizing the commitment to disrupting criminal networks leveraging technology for illicit gains. He noted that the seizure not only cripples the financial capabilities of these networks but also sends a clear message about the risks involved in darknet activities.
The three suspects are currently being detained for questioning, with further investigations underway. This significant bust highlights the growing challenges law enforcement faces in the digital age and underscores the importance of continued vigilance and innovative policing methods.