India and US Join Forces to Seize $150 Million Cryptocurrency

The global fight against crime took a big step forward when India and the United States worked together to seize $150 million in cryptocurrency. The money was linked to a major drug trafficking network that operated across several countries.

The details of this action were shared in a handbook released in Paris by the Financial

Action Task Force (FATF), the Egmont Group of Financial Intelligence Units (FIUs), INTERPOL, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The handbook highlighted the growing use of cryptocurrencies in illegal activities and stressed the importance of countries working together in real time.

This case is not just about seizing money. It is about building trust and cooperation between countries and showing criminals that digital assets are no longer beyond the reach of law.

How the Case Began

In 2022, the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) asked India for help under the Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLA). The request was linked to a drug trafficking group led by two brothers. They were involved in the illegal distribution of fentanyl, heroin, and other dangerous drugs.

Investigators discovered that the brothers used encrypted communication systems and cryptocurrency wallets to manage their operations. What stood out was the scale of their holdings. They controlled over 8,500 bitcoins, worth nearly $150 million. These funds were being used to hide money from drug sales and to finance their global trafficking network.

The use of cryptocurrency gave them a level of anonymity. But it also left a trail that investigators could follow with advanced tools and international support.

India’s Role in the Investigation

After receiving the U.S. request, India’s Enforcement Directorate (ED) began its own investigation. The ED traced financial records and found transfers through a digital payment services provider worth ₹5.54 crore (around $670,000).

This was a key discovery. It showed how the brothers were using digital payment services to move money between accounts and across borders. These findings linked the digital payments to the larger crypto trail, making it easier for both India and the U.S. to connect the dots.

The FATF handbook praised the way the two countries coordinated in real time. U.S. officials even traveled to India to work side by side with investigators. They joined interviews with the accused and helped collect important evidence.

This close cooperation made the case stronger and faster. It showed the power of teamwork across borders in fighting financial crimes.

Arrests and Legal Action

Thanks to this cooperation, the brothers were arrested in April 2024. Soon after, a prosecution complaint was filed in court. This marked a huge step in breaking down one of the most dangerous drug trafficking and money laundering networks involving cryptocurrency.

The arrests proved that even criminals using advanced technology like crypto wallets could be caught if countries shared resources and knowledge. For both India and the U.S., this was not just a win in court it was a win for global security.

India’s Efforts in International Cooperation

The handbook also praised India for creating clear systems to deal with international cooperation in money laundering cases. The Ministry of Home Affairs has built standardized guidelines under the Criminal Procedure Code and the Prevention of Money Laundering Act (PMLA).

These guidelines give a clear step-by-step process for both incoming and outgoing MLA requests. By doing this, India has made cooperation easier, faster, and more reliable.

India also launched an online portal that helps countries send requests. The portal provides ready-made templates to make sure requests are filled out in the right way. The handbook noted similar examples from the UK and Argentina, showing how different countries are moving toward more digital systems for cooperation.

This shows India’s growing role as a global leader in anti-money laundering efforts.

FATF, INTERPOL, and the Egmont Group

The release of the handbook by FATF, INTERPOL, UNODC, and the Egmont Group was not just about this one case. It was a global reminder that financial crimes are no longer local they are international by nature.

The FATF has been setting rules for years to fight money laundering and terrorist financing. The Egmont Group, which includes more than 170 Financial Intelligence Units, helps countries exchange information securely. Together with INTERPOL and UNODC, they push for real-time sharing of data and resources.

This case between India and the U.S. showed exactly why these organizations exist. It was a real-world example of how their recommendations can work in practice.

Cryptocurrency: Benefits and Risks

Cryptocurrency has changed the financial world. It offers freedom, speed, and innovation. But it also carries risks. Criminals are quick to use it for drug trafficking, fraud, ransomware, and money laundering.

Unlike traditional banks, cryptocurrencies allow users to move money without revealing their identity. This anonymity makes it attractive to criminal groups. The brothers in this case used the system to hide millions.

However, advanced tools like blockchain forensics now make it possible to trace transactions. Investigators can follow the flow of funds, even across borders. By seizing the 8,500 bitcoins, authorities not only stopped criminals from using the money but also sent a message: crypto is not untouchable.

A Message to Global Criminal Networks

This case has a big message for the world. Criminal groups can no longer feel safe hiding behind technology or digital assets. When countries like India and the U.S. work together, even the most advanced networks can be taken down.

The seizure of $150 million is more than just a number. It shows how much money was being funneled into illegal drugs and global trafficking systems. By cutting off this money, authorities have made it harder for such groups to operate in the future.

The Bigger Picture for Anti-Money Laundering

The India-U.S. case also has a long-term impact. It strengthens global anti-money laundering (AML) frameworks and builds confidence in cross-border partnerships.

For India, it is proof that it is ready to play a bigger role in global financial security. For the U.S., it shows that working with trusted partners in Asia can help stop crimes that affect the world.

Most importantly, it tells the public that governments are serious about tackling crimes linked to cryptocurrency. This helps build trust in the global financial system and encourages the safe use of digital assets.

Looking Ahead: Building a Safer Digital World

The FATF handbook stresses that the future will depend on technology, speed, and teamwork. As more people use cryptocurrencies, criminals will continue to look for ways to exploit them. But with strong legal systems, real-time information sharing, and global cooperation, these risks can be controlled.

This case is just one example, but it shows a path forward. The world needs more such cooperation to make sure digital finance remains safe and transparent.

A Landmark Step in Global Fight Against Crypto Crime

The seizure of $150 million in cryptocurrency by India and the U.S. is a landmark moment in the fight against global crime. It shows how real-time coordination, trust, and technology can help break down even the most powerful networks.

For criminals, it is a warning that crypto is no longer beyond the reach of the law. For the world, it is proof that cooperation works. By building on this success, countries can ensure that the future of finance is secure, transparent, and fair for everyone.