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Cocaine Trade Funds Russia: NCA Uncovers £25M Scheme

11/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The National Crime Agency (NCA) warns cocaine purchases in Britain may indirectly fund Russia's war in Ukraine.
Operation Destabilise uncovered a billion-dollar money laundering network across 28 UK towns that converts drug proceeds into cryptocurrency.
The operation led to 128 arrests and £25 million in seizures.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis says the operation exposes Russia's sanctions-evasion tactics.
The NCA aims to disrupt this criminal ecosystem that supports global crime.

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Story summary

The National Crime Agency (NCA) warns cocaine purchases in Britain may indirectly fund Russia's war in Ukraine.
Operation Destabilise uncovered a billion-dollar money laundering network across 28 UK towns that converts drug proceeds into cryptocurrency.
The operation led to 128 arrests and £25 million in seizures.
Security Minister Dan Jarvis says the operation exposes Russia's sanctions-evasion tactics.
The NCA aims to disrupt this criminal ecosystem that supports global crime.