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Czech Justice Ministry Faces Inquiry Over €40 Million Bitcoin Gift from Ex-Darknet Operator

Police have opened a money laundering probe over the bitcoin gift’s origins as Justice Minister Pavel Blazek defends it as an act of atonement.

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Overview

  • The Ministry of Justice sold 468.468 bitcoins donated by a convicted offender for nearly €40 million.
  • Authorities suspect the cryptocurrency may have been laundered and are investigating its source.
  • The donor operated an illicit Darknet market for drugs and served a four-year prison sentence.
  • Proceeds from the sale will fund crime victim assistance and upgrades to prison facilities.
  • Justice Minister Pavel Blazek argues the donation represents a legitimate form of penance despite ethical concerns.