A global law enforcement initiative named Operation RapTor has resulted in the arrest of 270 individuals linked to illegal dark web activities. Authorities from ten nations across Europe, Asia, South America, and North America took part in the coordinated crackdown. The operation targeted individuals suspected of trafficking drugs, weapons, and counterfeit goods on anonymous online marketplaces.
Seized assets included over €184 million in both cash and cryptocurrency, two tonnes of narcotics, and more than 180 illegal firearms. Europol, which led the operation, described it as a significant blow to criminal networks exploiting the dark web.
The United States made the highest number of arrests with 130 suspects detained. Other major arrests occurred in Germany (42), the United Kingdom (37), France (29), and South Korea (19). Additional arrests were carried out in countries such as the Netherlands, Brazil, Spain, Austria, and Switzerland.
Intelligence Driven by Marketplace Takedowns
The suspects were identified through data extracted from previously dismantled dark web platforms, including Nemesis, Tor2Door, Bohemia, and Kingdom Market. These investigations revealed thousands of illicit transactions tied to the arrested individuals.
Europol’s Head of Cybercrime, Edvardas Šileris, stated that the operation sends a clear message to criminals who believe the dark web offers anonymity. Through global cooperation, authorities have shown that no part of the internet is beyond their reach.
This action builds on intelligence gained during past operations, such as Operation SpecTor (2023), which resulted in 288 arrests, and Operation DisrupTor (2020), which led to 179. The takedown of Hydra Market in 2022—a platform serving over 17 million customers—also contributed to the broader strategy against dark web crime.
Continued Efforts to Disrupt Digital Crime
Europol and the U.S. DOJ’s JCODE team continue to analyze evidence from these operations. Ongoing efforts aim to track down additional offenders who are still active within darknet ecosystems.
The success of Operation RapTor highlights the growing capabilities of international cybercrime units to identify, disrupt, and dismantle digital criminal enterprises. Eye World will continue to monitor and report on these developments to keep readers informed and aware of cyber threats.
