Irish police have seized stolen cryptocurrency amounting to approximately €6.5 million during an investigation into “dark markets” and money laundering. The operation, which led to the arrest of three individuals, took place at a residence in the northern part of Dublin county, carried out by armed police units with the assistance of specialists from the National Bureau for Combating Cybercrime.
During the search, law enforcement authorities discovered significant assets, including Bitcoin and Monero cryptocurrencies valued at around €6.5 million. Additionally, luxury items such as high-end watches worth over €120,000 and two cars valued at €220,000 were also confiscated.
Among the detainees were a 23-year-old man and a 49-year-old man, suspected of involvement in serious organized crime. A 32-year-old woman was also arrested on suspicion of violating laws related to money laundering and terrorism financing.
The 49-year-old man and the woman have been released on bail and are scheduled to appear in court in October. However, the 23-year-old Kevin Daniel Andrew remains in custody, believed to be an administrator of a major darknet market, presumably the Bohemia Market, which is at the center of law enforcement’s investigation.
Detective Michael Mullen emphasized that the arrests and asset seizures were the result of a complex investigation carried out by specialists from the Bureau. He stated that these actions reflect Ireland’s commitment to preventing criminals from profiting from illegal activities, irrespective of their nature.
Mullen further confirmed that the dark market where illicit goods and services were traded is no longer operational, indicating the official closure of the Bohemia Darknet Market.