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Police Crack Down on Global Crypto Fraud Ring, Arrests Five in London

The London Metropolitan Police have apprehended five individuals as part of a significant investigation into a cryptocurrency investment fraud.

These suspects, aged between 21 and 37, are linked to a scheme that allegedly defrauded victims globally through fake online trading platforms.

Detective Sergeant Stephen Bourne stated that the scam employed convincing websites with professional content and aggressive marketing tactics.

Investigators estimate that over $1.3 million (£1 million) was lost by victims, who were pressured into investing in digital tokens not intended for legitimate exchanges.

The suspects were arrested on October 1 and have been released on bail while the investigation continues.

The case highlights ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement in the UK regarding cryptocurrency-related scams.

In 2025, the UK's national fraud helpline, Action Fraud, received an alarming number of reports totaling $3.3 billion (£2.6 billion) in fraud losses.

Several fraudulent websites, including DTX Exchange and Intel Markets, have been linked to the suspects, with most now inactive except for Unilabs Finance.

This site falsely claims to be a top-performing crypto fund managing significant assets but has not responded to police inquiries.

Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and refrain from interacting with suspicious investment platforms, recognizing the severe impact of such fraudulent activities.