U.S. DOJ sentences Indian cryptocurrency vendor Anurag Pramod Murarka to 121 months for laundering $20M through darknet platforms and a hawala network.
Cryptocurrency Laundering Scheme Ends in Prison Sentence
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has sentenced Indian national Anurag Pramod Murarka, 30, to 121 months in prison for laundering more than $20 million in cryptocurrency. The scheme involved darknet transactions and a complex international hawala network. U.S. District Judge Gregory Van Tatenhove handed down the sentence on January 17, following Murarka’s coordinated efforts to disguise funds linked to criminal enterprises such as hacking and drug trafficking.
Murarka operated under aliases like “elonmuskwhm” and “la2nyc” on encrypted platforms to facilitate illegal cryptocurrency exchanges. The DOJ outlined his process: clients sent cryptocurrency to designated wallet addresses in exchange for cash delivered via hawala channels. His U.S.-based employees used creative methods, such as hiding cash in books or envelopes, to complete transactions.
Hawala Network Exposed
Murarka’s hawala operation originated in India, leveraging cryptocurrency’s pseudonymity to obscure the illicit origins of funds. The DOJ described how his employees collected, packaged, and distributed cash, maintaining a seamless cycle of laundering money for other criminals.
Upon Murarka’s arrest, the FBI took control of his operation to dismantle the network. This undercover action recovered millions in proceeds, prevented financial account takeovers, and led to the seizure of counterfeit drugs and related paraphernalia.
U.S. Attorney Speaks on Case
U.S. Attorney Carlton S. Shier, IV, highlighted the case’s severity:
The defendant assisted countless criminals in concealing stolen money and drug proceeds. This sentence sends a clear message about the consequences of laundering funds through cryptocurrencies and unregulated networks.
Murarka will serve at least 85% of his sentence and face three years of probation upon release.
Stay informed about cryptocurrency related legal developments by following DOJ updates and case rulings.
