Malaysian Police Arrested Over Alleged USDT Extortion Raid
A major internal probe is underway in Malaysia after 12 police officers were detained over allegations they extorted cryptocurrency from a group of Chinese nationals during a raid in Kajang, Selangor.
- 12 officers arrested over alleged crypto-linked gang robbery.
- Victims claim they were forced to transfer USDT50,000 in Tether after a raid.
- No evidence of scam activity was reportedly found.
- Authorities are tracing the blockchain transaction.
The arrests include officers ranging from assistant superintendent to constable, with service records spanning two to 27 years. Four of the suspects were attached to the federal Commercial Crime Investigation Department’s cyber and digital forensic divisions at Bukit Aman.
Crypto Payment Allegedly Demanded for Release
The case stems from a February 5 operation at a rented bungalow in Country Heights. Officers reportedly entered the property around 11:10pm under the guise of an anti-scam mission codenamed “Op Taring,” allegedly linked to a Cambodian syndicate.
After inspecting passports and electronic devices, no evidence of illegal activity was found, according to sources cited in local media. The occupants, who identified themselves as market surveyors working for a China-based company, also had no travel records to Cambodia.
Despite the lack of evidence, the group claims they were threatened with arrest and immigration action unless they paid RM400,000. Following negotiations, the demand was allegedly reduced to USDT50,000 in Tether. The transfer was reportedly made in the early hours to a wallet address provided by the officers, who left only after confirming the transaction.
Arrests Expand to Federal Units
Seven district-level officers were initially detained, followed by five more, including four from federal CCID units. All 12 suspects are believed to have been present during the operation.
Investigators seized mobile phones, SIM cards and documents as part of the probe. The case is being investigated under Section 395 of Malaysia’s Penal Code for gang robbery. Magistrates in Kajang and Bandar Baru Bangi granted remand orders before the suspects were later released on bail.
Authorities are now working to trace the cryptocurrency transfer, highlighting how blockchain-based payments are increasingly appearing in criminal investigations. While stablecoins like USDT are commonly used for fast cross-border settlements, they also introduce technical and jurisdictional challenges when linked to alleged misconduct.
Broader Implications for Law Enforcement
If substantiated, the allegations would represent a coordinated abuse of authority involving officers from both district and federal divisions. Malaysian police sources say the force is treating the case seriously as investigations continue.
The incident reflects a growing intersection between traditional law enforcement and digital finance – where cryptocurrency is no longer just a market instrument, but increasingly part of criminal, regulatory and institutional risk narratives.
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Alexander Zdravkov is a market analyst and crypto journalist with interests in economics, broader financial markets and digital assets. His journey into crypto began more than four years ago, driven by a fascination with the rapid evolution of blockchain technology and the transformative potential of decentralized finance. He began analyzing market cycles and identifying emerging trends before they reach the mainstream. He holds a degree in International Relations - a background that helped shape his broader perspective on global economics, geopolitics, and the interconnected nature of modern financial markets. Whether covering the latest developments in the crypto sector or exploring broader macroeconomic themes, Alexander focuses on giving readers context rather than simply repeating headlines. During his career, he has authored more than 10,000 articles covering cryptocurrencies, traditional finance, and global market developments. His work spans everything from Bitcoin and altcoins to macroeconomic trends influencing risk assets worldwide.
