Russian money laundering networks uncovered linking narco traffickers, ransomware gangs and Kremlin spies

Operation Destabilise: the U.K. National Crime Agency exposed a billion-dollar Russian-linked money laundering network (companies Smart and TGR Group) that facilitated converting cash into cryptocurrency and vice versa for ransomware groups (Trickbot/Conti/Ryuk), drug cartels, sanctioned elites and alleged espionage operations; the operation produced 84 arrests, seizure of over £20M in cash/crypto, and U.S./U.K. sanctions, and described courier-based cash-to-Tether exchanges, shell companies, and international routing of value.