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FBI Operated Elon Musk-Themed Crypto Money Laundering Sting After Arresting Mastermind
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) recently operated an extensive cryptocurrency money laundering sting operation, utilizing an Elon Musk-themed alias, following the arrest of its mastermind. The scheme, which laundered over $20 million in criminal proceeds, was taken under control by law enforcement after apprehending the original operator.
According to reports, Indian national Anurag Pramod Murarka, 30, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for running the illegal enterprise. Prior to his arrest in September 2023, he had operated the scheme from April 2021, employing Elon Musk-themed aliases such as “elonmuskwhm” and “la2nyc.”
During the course of the investigation, authorities discovered that Murarka’s operation utilized a sophisticated hawala system – an informal money transfer method deemed illegal in many countries. He promoted his services through darknet marketplaces.
It is reported that criminal proceeds from various illicit activities, primarily drug trafficking and cybercrime, were concealed in unusual locations. These included envelopes and even children’s books, as part of the scheme to evade detection.
The FBI took control of the operation after luring Murarka into traveling to the United States by approving his visa application. Upon his arrival, he was immediately arrested. This enabled law enforcement to take over the illegal enterprise and continue operating it from a “shed-sized” post office in Kentucky.
For nearly a year, agents processed cryptocurrency payments, monitored cash deliveries to Murarka’s U.S.-based associates, and tracked communications. This allowed them to gather evidence against other members of the criminal network.
Under federal law, Murarka must serve at least 85% of his prison sentence, which translates to a minimum of 8.5 years behind bars. Following the completion of his imprisonment, he will be subject to three years of supervised release, during which his activities will be closely monitored by authorities.
The recent sting operation serves as a reminder of ongoing efforts by U.S. law enforcement agencies to combat cryptocurrency-related crimes. This includes Operation Level Up, which reportedly prevented victims from losing $285 million in crypto fraud.
In 2023 alone, an estimated $3.9 billion was lost due to crypto-related investment fraud. The case highlights the increasingly sophisticated methods employed by both criminals and law enforcement in the digital asset space.
Source: https://blockonomi.com/fbi-operated-elon-musk-themed-crypto-money-laundering-sting-after-arresting-mastermind/
