Title: “Dismantling a Belgian Money Laundering Ring Worth EUR 180 Million”

Announcement of Arrests and Seizure of Assets

• Belgian and Spanish authorities have apprehended six suspects involved in a money laundering operation worth approximately EUR 180 million. (Europol)
• The criminal network, which laundered drug money through complex schemes involving cryptocurrencies and luxury real estate, has been dismantled. (Europol, Monday)

The Money Laundering Operation

• The operation revolved around an underground banking system and the distribution of cash.
• Primary methods for laundering ill-gotten funds:
  • Investments in luxurious real estate projects in the European Union
• Collaborative effort between Belgian and Spanish law enforcement agencies

Disruption of Drug Trafficking Networks

• The investigation, which targeted financing of drug trafficking networks, came to light as part of an international operation.
• Seized assets include:
  • Multiple houses
  • A significant amount of cash

Europol’s Role and Statement

• Europol’s Executive Director, Catherine De Bolle, commented:

  This successful operation demonstrates the importance of international cooperation in targeting and disrupting organized crime structures. Europol and our partner agencies have led to the dismantling of this sophisticated money laundering network, dealing a significant blow to the wider criminal organization it was supporting.

Continued Investigation and Public Vigilance

• The investigation will continue with the further questioning of the detainees and ongoing analysis of seized evidence.
• Europol urges the public to:

  remain vigilant report any suspicious activities to their local law enforcement or Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre.