Authorities in the United States and across Europe have carried out an international operation, known as Operation RapTor, targeting drug sales on hidden online marketplaces.
The operation, announced on May 22 by the US Department of Justice, led to the arrest of 270 people and the recovery of around $200 million in cash and cryptocurrencies.
It focused on online networks where illegal drugs, especially those containing fentanyl, are often bought and sold. The coordinated effort was carried out with the help of Europol and national law enforcement bodies from ten countries, including the US, UK, France, and Brazil.
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The US team leading Operation RapTor was part of the Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (J-CODE) group. It brings experts from different agencies to track down people using the internet to sell illegal opioids.
In many cases, the teams used evidence gathered from online purchases and digital payment records to find those responsible.
Investigators successfully seized more than two metric tons of drugs. This included 144 kilograms of substances mixed with fentanyl, a powerful opioid linked to rising overdose deaths. They also confiscated 180 guns and large amounts of cryptocurrency linked to these sales.
According to Attorney General Pam Bondi, the results of this operation will help prevent future harm. She added:
Criminals cannot hide behind computer screens or seek refuge on the dark web.
On May 17, police in Hong Kong and mainland China shut down a $15 million crypto laundering ring and arrested 12 people. How did the operation unfold? Read the full story.
Having completed a Master’s degree in Economics, Politics, and Cultures of the East Asia region, Aaron has written scientific papers analyzing the differences between Western and Collective forms of capitalism in the post-World War II era.With close to a decade of experience in the FinTech industry, Aaron understands all of the biggest issues and struggles that crypto enthusiasts face. He’s a passionate analyst who is concerned with data-driven and fact-based content, as well as that which speaks to both Web3 natives and industry newcomers.Aaron is the go-to person for everything and anything related to digital currencies. With a huge passion for blockchain & Web3 education, Aaron strives to transform the space as we know it, and make it more approachable to complete beginners.Aaron has been quoted by multiple established outlets, and is a published author himself. Even during his free time, he enjoys researching the market trends, and looking for the next supernova.
