"Real-Time Crypto Crackdown: U.S. & India Set New Standard in Cross-Border Enforcement"

U.S. and Indian law enforcement agencies have successfully seized cryptocurrency assets valued at USD 150 million that were linked to drug trafficking operations, according to a joint operation highlighted in a new handbook on international cooperation against money laundering by the Financial Action Task Force (FATF), Egmont Group, INTERPOL, and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The real-time collaboration between the two countries underscores the growing importance of cross-border efforts in addressing the challenges posed by digital assets used in illicit activities [1].

The joint operation demonstrates how international cooperation can significantly enhance the effectiveness of law enforcement in tracking and seizing assets associated with criminal networks. The use of cryptocurrency in drug trafficking has become increasingly prevalent due to its relative anonymity and the challenges it poses for traditional financial surveillance mechanisms. The USD 150 million seizure is one of several examples cited in the new handbook, which emphasizes the need for secure communication channels, joint analysis, and rapid response mechanisms to counter financial crime [2].

The operation aligns with broader global trends in cryptocurrency adoption and regulation. India and the U.S. have emerged as the top two countries in global crypto adoption, according to Chainalysis’ 2025 Global Crypto Adoption Index. India leads in several categories, including retail centralized service value received, decentralized finance (DeFi) engagement, and institutional service usage. The U.S. follows closely, driven by regulatory advancements and increasing institutional participation in the crypto market. Notably, the U.S. has also seen the approval of spot bitcoin exchange-traded funds (ETFs), signaling greater legitimacy and integration of digital assets into mainstream financial systems [4].

The success of the U.S.-India operation highlights the potential of international partnerships in combating financial crimes that transcend national borders. In particular, it reflects the growing recognition among global authorities that informal cooperation—such as joint analysis and real-time coordination—can complement formal legal procedures and accelerate investigations. The handbook, which includes this and other real-world examples, offers practical guidance for financial intelligence units, law enforcement agencies, and prosecutors to enhance their cross-border collaboration [1].

Experts warn that without stronger international cooperation, criminal networks will continue to exploit legal and technological loopholes to launder money and finance illicit activities. The U.S. and Indian authorities’ ability to act in real time in this case suggests a shift toward more agile and technology-driven enforcement strategies. The operation also demonstrates how international regulatory bodies are working to harmonize approaches to digital asset investigations, ensuring that financial systems remain resilient against exploitation by criminal actors [2].

As the global financial landscape continues to evolve with the rise of digital assets, the U.S. and other nations are taking steps to clarify and reform crypto regulations. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) has announced a regulatory agenda that includes potential amendments to allow crypto trading on national exchanges and reduce compliance burdens for public companies. These changes aim to foster innovation while maintaining investor protection, reflecting a broader shift in policy as governments seek to adapt to the complexities of the digital economy [3].

Source:

[1] FATF, Egmont Group, INTERPOL and UNODC call for stronger cooperation between countries as they launch handbook to fight money laundering (https://www.unodc.org/unodc/en/news/2025/September/fatf--egmont-group--interpol-and-unodc-call-for-stronger-cooperation-between-countries-as-they-launch-handbook-to-fight-money-laundering.html)

[2] FATF, Egmont Group, INTERPOL and UNODC call for ... (https://www.fatf-gafi.org/en/publications/Methodsandtrends/international-cooperation-against-money-laundering.html)

[3] US SEC unveils agenda to revamp crypto policies, ease Wall Street rules (https://www.reuters.com/legal/government/us-sec-unveils-agenda-revamp-crypto-policies-ease-wall-street-rules-2025-09-04/)

[4] India and the U.S. lead global cryptocurrency adoption in 2025, Chainalysis report shows (https://coincentral.com/india-and-the-us-lead-global-cryptocurrency-adoption-in-2025-chainalysis-report-shows/)