Europol dismantles major crypto money laundering service

Europol announced the dismantling of a significant cryptocurrency money laundering service, "AudiA6," which investigators believe facilitated the laundering of over 336 million euros between 2022 and 2025. The coordinated international operation led to the arrest of two suspected platform administrators, identified as Ukrainian and Russian nationals, in Georgia. Authorities also searched three properties, shut down 25 domains, and seized over 30 servers. Additionally, 80 vehicles and several properties in Georgia were confiscated as part of the crackdown.

Europol stated that "AudiA6" had become a central hub for ransomware actors and cybercriminals seeking to monetize stolen digital assets without detection. The agency reported freezing cryptocurrency assets worth 692,000 euros and seizing over 86,000 euros in cryptocurrencies. Telegram accounts used by the network were also blocked.

This operation builds on previous efforts, with Polish police arresting a Ukrainian national in September 2025 in connection with the case. Evidence found during those searches helped identify further suspects. The recent international action involved law enforcement agencies from the United States, Australia, Canada, France, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom, alongside Germany's Federal Criminal Police Office and the North Rhine-Westphalia State Criminal Police Office.

Herbert Reul, the Interior Minister of North Rhine-Westphalia, praised the operation, stating, "Europol has caught a big fish with the involvement of the LKA North Rhine-Westphalia." He emphasized that such successes are the result of intensive preparation, persistent investigation, and dedication. Reul warned criminals, "Anyone who believes they can operate a money laundering platform undisturbed has no idea. Sooner or later, the police will be at the door – and sometimes it's because security authorities worldwide are involved."

“

Europol is under Beteiligung des LKA Nordrhein-Westfalen ein dicker Fisch ins Netz gegangen.