Gardaí from the National Cyber Crime Bureau (GNCCB) seized cryptocurrency valued at approximately €6.5 million ($7.1 million) during a raid in North County Dublin on Monday. The operation targeted money laundering and illegal darknet sales, seizing luxury watches worth over €120,000. Additionally, two high-powered vehicles valued at around €220,000 were confiscated.
According to a recent report, the raid was carried out with the support of the Armed Support Unit. This marks a crucial step in the GNCCB’s efforts to combat cybercrime and disrupt criminal activities in the digital underworld. The operation resulted in the arrest of three individuals: two men, aged 23 and 49, and a 32-year-old woman. These individuals are believed to be key players in aiding a criminal organization and laundering money through sophisticated channels.
Detective Superintendent Michael Mullen of the GNCCB highlighted the complexity of the investigation. He described it as a meticulously planned effort that has significantly disrupted criminal networks operating on the darknet. He stated,
The arrests of the three individuals and the assets seized are the result of a highly complex investigation into criminal Darknet Marketplace activities by specialist investigators attached to the Garda National Cyber Crime Bureau.
The 23-year-old man remains in custody, facing charges related to aiding a criminal organization under Section 72 of the Criminal Justice Act 2006. Meanwhile, the 49-year-old man and the 32-year-old woman are both suspected of money laundering under the Criminal Justice (Money Laundering and Terrorist Financing) Act 2021. They have been released pending further legal proceedings.
Nigerian Police Arrest Self-Proclaimed Crypto Billionaire for Terrorism FundingMullen emphasized that this operation sends a clear message to those engaged in illicit activities, particularly those exploiting emerging technologies like cryptocurrency. He emphasized that Ireland is dedicated to preventing criminals from profiting, regardless of their attempts to conceal their gains. This operation underscores the commitment of Irelend’s national police and security service Garda Síochána and their experts in seeking justice and dismantling criminal networks.
This seizure marks one of Ireland’s most significant cryptocurrency-related crackdowns. It highlights the growing challenge digital currencies pose in the fight against organized crime. As the investigation continues, further actions are anticipated, with authorities committed to dismantling the infrastructure supporting illegal activities on the darknet.
