A scandal has erupted in Catalonia that could change the way Spain tackles the financing of terrorism. At the center of the controversy is a barbershop owner suspected of transferring large amounts via cryptocurrencies to accounts linked to an extremist organization. This is the first such case where regional police have traced international financial flows connected to terrorism.
The investigation began after Mossos d’Esquadra officers detected suspicious transactions during a fraud and money laundering case. Upon further inspection, it was found that one of the suspects, a 38-year-old man of Chinese origin who owns a barbershop in L’Hospitalet de Llobregat, had made cryptocurrency transfers to addresses associated with an organization classified as terrorist by international authorities.
Money and cryptocurrency
According to the investigation, about thirty transactions have been recorded, totaling around 600,000 euros. All transfers were sent to accounts believed to be used for funding the group’s activities. For Mossos d’Esquadra, this is the first encounter with such a scheme, highlighting the growing role of digital currencies in international criminal networks.
During searches of the suspect’s apartment and salon, police found €100,000 in cash, a collection of expensive jewelry, nine thousand cigars, electronic devices, and two firearms. These discoveries only reinforced suspicions of involvement in illegal activities and possible money laundering.
Asset freeze
By court order, the bank accounts and cryptocurrency assets linked to the detainee were frozen. The total value of the seized property and blocked funds is estimated at around €370,000. The investigation is ongoing, and all case details remain classified for now.
The man was released on bail with a travel ban, but he faces charges of terrorism financing and smuggling. The case is being handled by the National Court, underscoring its particular significance and scale.
The investigation continues
This was the first time in Mossos d’Esquadra history that the regional police independently uncovered and dismantled a terrorist financing scheme using cryptocurrencies. Interest in the case remains high, as it could set a precedent for similar investigations in Spain.
While the investigation is ongoing, details of the operation and any possible links between the suspect and international organizations remain unknown. However, it is already clear: even the most seemingly ordinary businesses can be part of global schemes that threaten national security.
