Brazilian police seize cryptocurrency in separate crime operations

Brazilian authorities have conducted two distinct operations resulting in the seizure of cryptocurrency assets linked to organized crime.

In Rio de Janeiro, the Federal Police and the Public Ministry of the State of Rio de Janeiro launched Operação Magen to target a criminal group accused of money laundering, usury, and illegal arms trafficking. The group, which reportedly includes police officers and former military police officers, moved over R$100 million through various bank accounts over four years. During the operation, agents seized physical cryptocurrency wallets, heavy weaponry, vehicles, and cash. Federal experts are currently working to access the self-custody devices to track financial transfers.

In a separate incident, the Civil Police of Santa Catarina executed Operação ClickFix, targeting a phishing ring. This operation resulted in the seizure of approximately US$1.7 million in Bitcoin, Ethereum, TRON, and Tether from self-custody wallets. The funds were traced using blockchain tools and have been moved to an institutional account at the Foxbit exchange under state custody. The operation also led to two arrests and the seizure of luxury vehicles, including a Corvette, and judicial orders to freeze bank accounts and real estate totaling significant sums.