Canada's Largest Crypto Bust: RCMP Seizes C$56 Million and Shuts Down TradeOgre
In a landmark operation, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have seized over C$56 million (approximately $41 million USD) in cryptocurrency, marking Canada's largest digital asset seizure to date. The operation also led to the shutdown of the cryptocurrency trading platform TradeOgre within Canada, a first for Canadian law enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- RCMP confiscated C$56 million in crypto from TradeOgre.
- This is Canada's largest cryptocurrency seizure and the first dismantling of a crypto trading platform by police.
- The investigation was prompted by a tip from Europol regarding TradeOgre's alleged non-compliance with Canadian laws.
Investigation Details
The RCMP's Eastern Region division spearheaded the year-long investigation, initiated in June 2024 following an alert from Europol. Authorities allege that TradeOgre failed to register as a money services business with the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada (FINTRAC) and did not implement proper client identity verification procedures.
Allegations Against TradeOgre
Investigators claim that a significant portion of the funds processed through TradeOgre originated from illicit activities. The platform's offering of anonymous account creation is believed to have facilitated organized crime groups in concealing the origins of their funds, according to the RCMP.
Ongoing Investigation
The RCMP stated that transaction data obtained from the platform will undergo thorough analysis, and further charges may be laid as the investigation continues. This action represents a significant step in Canada's efforts to combat financial crime in the digital asset space.