Authorities raided the Gorbushka Mall in Moscow, targeting cryptocurrency exchanges amid investigations linked to new regulations and fraud cases.
On August 13, law enforcement conducted significant searches at the Gorbushka shopping center in Moscow as part of an investigation into cryptocurrency exchanges. Reports from various media, including the Telegram channel Baza, confirmed the raids.
During these actions, authorities confiscated cash, documents, and equipment related to the exchanges.
Bogdan Ageev, owner of the Ageev Finance exchange at Gorbushka, stated that officials were conducting checks as part of investigations within the Rubin business center. He noted that these raids were likely prompted by the impending implementation of new cryptocurrency regulations.
"According to our information, checks are being conducted on unofficial crypto exchanges in light of new cryptocurrency laws set to take effect soon," Ageev explained.
Ageev reassured that his business was not impacted, as it is already in the process of compliance with legal standards. Meanwhile, reports from RT indicated that Moscow law enforcement was actively addressing illegal cryptocurrency operations, with employees of these exchanges reportedly confined during the investigations.
Some sources suggested that the searches were tied to a fraud investigation involving a courier attempting to exchange stolen funds for cryptocurrency. The new law, "On Digital Currency and Digital Rights," is set to be enacted after September 1, with certain provisions taking longer to implement. A transitional period lasting until July 1, 2027, will allow market participants to secure necessary licenses and adjust to the new regulations.
Ageev speculated that these actions by authorities might signal a crackdown on unregulated activities and a push for compliance among cryptocurrency operators.
