Cryptocurrency Kingpin Arrested: Aleksej Besciokov's Alleged Crimes Exposed

The CBI and Kerala Police arrested Aleksej Besciokov, a Lithuanian national wanted by the U.S. for creating cryptocurrency exchange Garantex to launder billions. The operation facilitated money laundering and other crimes. Besciokov faces numerous charges in the U.S. with a potential prison sentence of 20 years.

Aleksej Besciokov, a Lithuanian national linked to extensive criminal activities, was apprehended by the CBI and Kerala Police. Besciokov was wanted by U.S. authorities for allegedly managing the cryptocurrency exchange Garantex, accused of laundering at least $96 billion.

According to the U.S. Secret Service, Besciokov allegedly operated Garantex between 2019-2025, allowing significant money laundering operations for criminal organizations. These acts contributed to a variety of offenses such as hacking, terrorism, and drug trafficking, significantly impacting U.S. victims.

Besciokov is facing multiple charges, including money laundering and violations of the International Economic Emergency Powers Act, each carrying a maximum of 20 years in prison. The U.S. has also seized domain names and frozen $26 million linked to Garantex's operations. His extradition proceedings are underway in India.