Particle.news
Download on the App Store

SFO Arrests Two in $28 Million Basis Markets Crypto Probe

The case tests the fraud office’s expanded crypto-asset tracing capability.

Overview

  • Investigators searched properties in Herne Hill, London, and near Bradford with Metropolitan and West Yorkshire Police support.
  • Two men, one in his 30s and another in his 40s, were detained on suspicion of fraud and money laundering.
  • Search warrants led to the seizure of digital devices and documents as authorities trace investor funds.
  • Basis Markets raised about $28 million through NFT and token sales in late 2021 before halting in June 2022 citing proposed US regulations.
  • The SFO labeled this its first major cryptocurrency case and appealed for investors to share information, with no charges announced yet.