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Laundering, scams and organized crime: the most famous cases involving cryptocurrencies in Latin America
MX🏛️ PoliticsLean Conservative9 days ago

Laundering, scams and organized crime: the most famous cases involving cryptocurrencies in Latin America

The article discusses the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies in Latin America, while highlighting various scandals linked to their use. It notes that authorities across the region have investigated cases involving money laundering, fraud, corruption suspicions, and organized crime financing. In Argentina, the cryptocurrency LIBRA saw a dramatic price drop after President Javier Milei initially promoted it, leading to accusations of a potential crypto scam with possible political implications. In Mexico, criminal groups like the Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG are reportedly using virtual assets to launder money and acquire illicit goods, prompting actions by Mexican authorities such as the UIF. In Chile, investigations suggest that financial structures tied to the 'financial arm' of the Tren de Aragua gang are using cryptocurrencies to conceal proceeds from organized crime, with authorities seeking to freeze digital wallets.

An ex-official from the National Institute of Electoral Transparency (ANAM) has been linked to a Romanian organized crime operator, according to reports from local media. The individual is alleged to have purchased a house belonging to a member of Mexico’s ruling party, Morena. This connection raises concerns over potential corruption and illicit financial activities involving high-ranking officials and criminal networks. The case emerged amid broader investigations into the use of cryptocurrencies in Latin America, particularly in relation to money laundering, fraud, and organized crime. In Mexico, authorities have identified drug cartels such as the Sinaloa Cartel and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel (CJNG) using digital assets to move illicit funds and finance narcotics operations, especially related to fentanyl. The Financial Intelligence Unit (UIF) under the Ministry of Finance and Credit Public (SHCP) has taken measures to block accounts and seize assets tied to these networks. In other parts of the region, similar patterns have been observed. In Chile, investigators have pointed to structures associated with the so-called "financial arm" of the Tren de Aragua gang using cryptocurrencies to conceal proceeds from organized crime. In June 2025, prosecutors requested the freezing, closure, and seizure of digital wallets connected to this case. Police discovered the use of Binance to convert virtual assets into fiat currency, with transfers made through cryptocurrency accounts before being converted into Chilean pesos. In Colombia, the lack of specific regulatory frameworks has enabled the misuse of cryptoassets in schemes investigated by judicial authorities. The Financial Information and Analysis Unit (UIAF) and the Attorney General's Office have documented cases where cryptocurrencies served as channels for laundering assets derived from drug trafficking, administrative corruption, and illegal gold mining. These investigations have led to the dismantling of transnational networks engaged in smuggling and the collection of large sums of money through fraudulent investment platforms promising fixed monthly returns on virtual assets. Meanwhile, in the United States, political figures have faced scrutiny over their ties to organized crime. Andy López Beltrán, son of former president Andrés Manuel López Obrador, saw his U.S. visa revoked after allegations surfaced linking him to criminal organizations. Mexican political leader Alejandro Moreno, representing the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRI), praised the decision, stating that the "narco surname does not make them untouchable." He criticized the López Obrador family for allegedly shielding criminals and called for accountability, urging the government to address corruption and its links to organized crime. Moreno emphasized the need for Mexico to build trust with the United States based on cooperation, results, and institutional integrity. He argued that international confidence is earned through action against criminals rather than through political maneuvering. His comments reflect growing public frustration with perceived impunity among political elites and their connections to criminal groups. As authorities continue to investigate these complex financial and legal issues, the implications extend beyond individual cases. They highlight systemic challenges in combating corruption and organized crime in the region, especially when powerful individuals leverage both political influence and financial resources to evade justice. With ongoing efforts to strengthen oversight and enforcement, there is hope that these investigations will lead to greater transparency and accountability.

4 reports

El Universal logoEl UniversalIndependentConservativeFactual 85Objective 609 days ago
Alito Moreno celebrates withdrawal of visa to Andy López Beltrán; "narcoapellido does not make them untouchable", he said

The article reports on comments made by Alejandro Moreno, a national leader of the PRI, regarding the U.S. government revoking the visa of Andy López Beltrán, son of former Mexican president Andrés Manuel López Obrador. Moreno criticizes López Beltrán for using his family name to claim immunity and accuses his group of being complicit with organized crime. He praises the U.S. administration under Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio for their stance against drug cartels and emphasizes the need for Mexico to build trust through action. The tone is strongly critical of López Obrador’s family and their perceived involvement in corruption.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the issue as a critique of the López Obrador family's alleged ties to organized crime and corruption, while praising the U.S. government's actions. It uses strong language such as 'narcoapellido' (drug-related surname), 'pandilla de rateros' (thieves gang), and implies that the Ov

Why factuality (85): The article accurately reports statements made by Alejandro Moreno regarding the revocation of Andy López Beltrán’s visa and his criticism of López Beltrán’s reliance on his family name. The quotes are attributed properly and align with the cross-source consensus that the U.S. decision was based on

Why objectivity (60): The article uses emotionally charged language such as 'lloriquear' (whining) and 'descaro' (audacity), which may imply bias toward Moreno’s perspective. It also frames López Beltrán as defensive and accuses him of hypocrisy without providing balanced counterpoints, suggesting a lack of neutrality.

La Jornada logoLa JornadaIndependentProgressiveFactual 60Objective 6518 days ago
'Code of the Mafia' / Hernández

The article discusses a report titled 'Código de la mafia,' which appears to focus on organized crime structures or activities within Mexico. The term 'mafia' suggests a connection to criminal organizations, possibly implicating high-level corruption or systemic issues within certain sectors. The reference to 'Hernández' could indicate involvement of a specific individual or group associated with such activities. Without further details, the piece likely highlights concerns over illegal operations and their influence.

Bias read (Progressive): La Jornada is known for its progressive stance and critical coverage of government actions, often highlighting issues related to corruption and social justice. The framing of the article around 'mafia' and potential implications for governance aligns with a left-leaning perspective that emphasizes揭露

Why factuality (60): This article references a 'code of the mafia' by Hernández but lacks specific information or sources. It appears to be more opinion-based than factual, with limited alignment with other reports on the same topic.

Why objectivity (65): The article uses emotive language around the concept of a 'mafia code,' suggesting a narrative that may not be universally accepted. It presents a story without clear verification.

Animal Político logoAnimal PolíticoIndependentConservativeFactual 60Objective 5012 days ago
Former ANAM official associated with Romanian mafia operator; buys house worth one million

The article reports that a former employee of ANAM (National Agricultural Mechanization Agency) has been linked to a Romanian mafia operator and purchased a house belonging to a member of the National Action Party (PAN), which is part of President Andrés Manuel López Obrador's coalition. The piece suggests potential corruption or illicit connections involving public officials and organized crime networks.

Bias read (Conservative): The article frames the association between the former ANAM employee and a Romanian mafia operator in a manner that implies wrongdoing or unethical behavior, potentially casting suspicion on political figures associated with the ruling party. The emphasis on the purchase of property by a PAN member,谁

Why factuality (60): This article states that an ex-functionary from ANAM was associated with a Romanian mafia operator and purchased a house from an MDD member. While this type of reporting is common in political journalism, there is no direct link to verified sources or official investigations. The lack of specific ev

Why objectivity (50): The language used is accusatory and implies criminal activity without providing full context or due process. Phrases like 'se asoció con operador de mafia rumana' suggest a strong negative judgment without substantiation. This leans toward a partisan perspective, reducing objectivity.

El Universal logoEl UniversalIndependentCenterFactual 50Objective 5514 days ago
Laundering, scams and organized crime: the most famous cases involving cryptocurrencies in Latin America

The article discusses the growing popularity of cryptocurrencies in Latin America, while highlighting various scandals linked to their use. It notes that authorities across the region have investigated cases involving money laundering, fraud, corruption suspicions, and organized crime financing. In Argentina, the cryptocurrency LIBRA saw a dramatic price drop after President Javier Milei initially promoted it, leading to accusations of a potential crypto scam with possible political implications. In Mexico, criminal groups like the Sinaloa Cartel and CJNG are reportedly using virtual assets to launder money and acquire illicit goods, prompting actions by Mexican authorities such as the UIF. In Chile, investigations suggest that financial structures tied to the 'financial arm' of the Tren de Aragua gang are using cryptocurrencies to conceal proceeds from organized crime, with authorities seeking to freeze digital wallets.

Bias read (Center): The article presents a balanced overview of multiple countries and issues related to cryptocurrency misuse, including both political and criminal aspects. While it highlights concerns about corruption and organized crime, it does not take a clear ideological stance or emphasize any particular side.

Why factuality (50): This article shifts focus to cryptocurrency cases in Latin America, particularly in Argentina, and lacks direct relevance to the main event covered by other articles. It introduces unrelated topics, reducing its factual alignment with the others.

Why objectivity (55): The article is more of a thematic piece on cryptocurrency crimes rather than a focused report on the main event. It lacks balance and is not directly relevant to the other articles.

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