NSW Police Crack Down on Darknet Cryptocurrency Activity

The New South Wales Police Cybercrime Squad has made significant progress in its efforts to combat cryptocurrency-related crime, seizing 52.3 Bitcoin worth approximately AU$5.7 million during a recent raid.

As part of Strike Force Andalusia, the operation aimed to disrupt alleged darknet marketplace activity and bring those responsible to justice.

The investigation, launched in September 2024, involved tracing cryptocurrency transactions using blockchain analysis and digital forensics to connect on-chain activities with real-world identities.

Two men, aged 39 and 41, have been charged with various crimes related to the alleged darknet activity, including dealing with proceeds of crime exceeding AU$5 million and supplying prohibited drugs.