The Chinese government has announced that Zhang Moumou, the mastermind behind a massive crypto pyramid scheme, has been extradited from Thailand to China following an extensive international manhunt.
The Hunt for Zhang
Zhang’s extradition on August 20 represents a significant milestone in the global fight against economic crime, particularly in the rapidly evolving digital currency sector. Zhang, who has been on the run since 2020, was the head of the notorious MBI Group since 2012. This criminal organization ran a sophisticated online pyramid scheme, luring victims by issuing virtual digital currency and promising high returns on investment. Participants were required to pay fees ranging from 700 to 245,000 yuan ($98 to $34,316) to join the platform, with earnings tied to the recruitment of new members and the amount of funds invested. The scheme eventually ensnared more than 10 million people, with total funds involved exceeding 100 billion yuan ($14 billion).
Arrest to Extradition
Zhang’s capture by Thai police on July 21, 2022, marked a significant breakthrough in the case, but the extradition process was far from straightforward. China’s request for Zhang’s extradition was made in accordance with the bilateral treaty between China and Thailand. The Thai Court of Appeal issued a final ruling in favor of extradition on May 21, 2024, and the Thai government subsequently confirmed this decision on August 14, setting the stage for Zhang’s return to China just days later. This successful operation is the result of coordinated efforts between China’s Ministry of Public Security, the Chinese Embassy in Thailand, and Thai law enforcement agencies, all working under the banner of the Ministry’s “Fox Hunting Operation.”
Implications and Risk of Crypto Scams
Despite China’s ban on cryptocurrencies, the population is still vulnerable to crypto investment scams. In 2021, China implemented a comprehensive ban on Bitcoin, effectively halting all cryptocurrency transactions, as part of a multi-agency effort to clamp down on digital currencies. Although cryptocurrency transactions are restricted, Chinese authorities recognize crypto as virtual property, granting investors legal protection and allowing them to hold digital assets.
Zhang Moumou's extradition from Thailand to China highlights the seriousness of the fight against economic crimes related to cryptocurrencies. Despite strict measures against the use of digital currencies, the risk of scams in this area remains high, requiring continuous attention and coordination efforts between international law enforcement agencies.
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