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Czech Police Crack Down on Bitcoin Scandal as Arrests and Investigations Intensify

Czech authorities are deepening their investigation into a multi-billion-dollar bitcoin donation scandal that has already led to political fallout.

Convicted drug trafficker Tomáš Jiřikovský has been arrested by police in connection with a controversial donation to the country’s Ministry of Justice.

This investigation, conducted by the National Centre for Combating Organised Crime, is focusing on suspected money laundering and illegal drug trafficking.

Jiřikovský, known for running a darknet drug marketplace, was behind the donation of 468 BTC, valued around $45 million at the time of its acceptance.

The former Justice Minister Pavel Blažek, who initially accepted the donation, resigned following backlash over the unverified origins of the funds.

An audit commissioned by Blažek’s successor revealed that the gift likely stemmed from criminal proceeds and was inadvisable to accept.

This scandal has led to a vote of no confidence in Prime Minister Petr Fiala's government, which narrowly survived the challenge.

As the investigation progresses, prosecutors have emphasized the need for clarity in the case while securing evidence and assets.

The political implications continue to unfold, with opposition parties calling for further resignations as the nation gears up for elections.

An expanded timeline of the case is expected to be published soon, providing further insights into the controversial donation and its repercussions.