Interpol Seizes $97 Million in Crypto Amid Multinational Cybercrime Crackdown

Interpol's Operation HAECHI VI has confiscated $439 million in illicit proceeds across 40 countries, with cryptocurrencies accounting for $97 million of the total haul. The five-month investigation targeted seven cybercrime categories, including investment fraud and money laundering linked to illegal gambling.

Authorities froze 400 digital wallets and recovered $16 million in crypto assets, while blocking over 68,000 bank accounts. The operation uncovered a Portuguese scheme where suspects diverted $270,000 in social security payments from vulnerable families.

South Korea funded the international effort, which saw participation from major economies including China, Germany, and the United States. The seizures demonstrate growing law enforcement capabilities in tracing blockchain transactions despite criminals' increasing use of digital assets.