ZKasino Scammer Arrested: Dutch Authorities Seize $12.3 Million in Assets
The Dutch FIOD has arrested a 26-year-old man suspected of involvement in a large-scale scam surrounding the alleged gambling platform ZKasino.
According to the Fiscal Information and Investigation Service (FIOD) statement, the arrest took place on Monday, April 29, 2024.
Key points:
- Over $30 million worth of cryptocurrency was invested in ZKasino by victims worldwide.
- €11.4 million ($12.3 million) in various assets seized, including real estate, a luxury car, and cryptocurrencies
- FIOD collaborated with Binance’s Financial Crime Compliance and Investigations Team to secure millions in crypto.
- The suspect was brought before the examining magistrate, and detention was extended by 14 days.
According to the statement, signals from platform X (formerly Twitter) and information from FIOD’s intelligence departments triggered the criminal investigation.
Also read: Crypto Losses From Hacks And Scams Hit Record Low In April: CertiK
ZKasino presented itself as a gambling platform and blockchain casino, promising investors a return on their investments within 30 days. However, the funds locked in cryptocurrency wallets raised suspicion of a rug pull.
Authorities seized $12.3 million worth of assets from ZKasino scammer
During the investigation, FIOD conducted a search of the suspect’s home, seizing physical and digital administration and data carriers. The authorities also seized assets worth more than €11.4 million, including real estate, a luxury car, and various cryptocurrencies.
The FIOD investigation team also collaborated closely with the Financial Crime Compliance and Investigations Team of Binance. FIOD mentioned that this partnership enabled the authorities to secure millions of euros in cryptocurrency.
Also read: North Korea’s Lazarus Group Laundered $200M From 25+ Crypto Hacks: ZachXBT
The FIOD, in conjunction with the Functional Public Prosecutor’s Office, has conducted a digital financial investigation over the past few days. The authorities have also managed to establish contact with those involved in the alleged scam. Additionally, they have communicated the need for their cooperation to return the invested millions to the victims.
