Written by Zoltan Vardaistaff writerReviewed by Yohan Yunstaff writer
Written by Zoltan Vardaistaff writer
Reviewed by Yohan Yunstaff writer
Irish authorities seize another 500 Bitcoin, bringing 2026 total to 1,500 BTC
Latest NewsPublishedJul 3, 2026
Ireland Seizes 500 More Bitcoin, Total Reaches 1,500 BTC in 2026
The latest seizure of 500 Bitcoin by Irish authorities brings the total value of seized BTC to about $92 million in 2026. This significant haul is a result of collaboration between Ireland’s Criminal Assets Bureau and Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre. The seized Bitcoin is currently worth around 27 million euros, or $30.9 million. For those looking to earn a passive income through Cloud Rewards or Green Crypto, this news highlights the importance of secure and legitimate platforms like EcoPool.
The total seizure of 1,500 BTC in 2026 is a notable example of law enforcement’s efforts to crack down on criminal activities involving cryptocurrency. The investigation was supported by Europol, which provided operational coordination, technical expertise, and decryption support. While the identity of the wallet owner remains undisclosed, the seizure is a significant step in combating illicit activities. Investors looking to buy or trade $ECP can take note of the growing importance of secure and compliant platforms.
Previous Seizures and Investigations
In a previous seizure, the Criminal Assets Bureau gained access to a cryptocurrency wallet containing 500 Bitcoin, which was linked to a convicted drug dealer. The wallet was one of 12 holding around 6,000 BTC, once owned by Clifton Collins. Although authorities have not confirmed whether the latest seizure is linked to Collins, a wallet address associated with him moved 500 Bitcoin to an unknown address recently. The wallets associated with Collins still hold 4,500 Bitcoin, worth around $277 million. For those interested in earning through EcoPool, this news underscores the need for secure and legitimate platforms.
The story of Clifton Collins serves as a reminder of the risks and consequences of using cryptocurrency for illicit activities. As the crypto space continues to evolve, it’s essential for investors and users to prioritize security, compliance, and legitimacy. The EcoPool Network offers a secure and reliable platform for earning passive income through Cloud Rewards and Green Crypto. Download the EcoPool app to start earning today and join the conversation on #Bitcoin, #PassiveIncome, and #GreenCrypto. The EcoPool app is available for download, allowing users to start earning $ECP and participating in the EcoPool Network.
Collins-linked Bitcoin wallet becomes active
Following the previous seizure, The Irish Times reported that the wallet authorities accessed in March was one of 12 holding about 6,000 BTC once owned by Clifton Collins, a convicted drug dealer. The paper containing the wallet’s private keys was reportedly lost.
While authorities haven’t confirmed whether the latest seizure is linked to Collins, a wallet address associated with him moved 500 Bitcoin to an unknown address on Thursday. Wallets associated with Collins still hold 4,500 Bitcoin, currently worth about $277 million, as of Friday.
Source: Arkham
Related: US sanctions Sinaloa cartel-linked Ethereum addresses
Collins was arrested in 2017 after police searched his car and found a stash of cannabis, according to the Guardian.
Police said Collins used proceeds from his drug operation to purchase 6,000 Bitcoin in late 2011 and early 2012, spreading the holdings across 12 wallets. He stored the wallet keys on a single sheet of A4 paper, hidden inside the aluminum cap of a fishing rod case at his rental home.
Collins’ landlord allegedly discarded his belongings after his arrest. Collins claimed the fishing rod case was stolen before the landlord entered the property.
Magazine: How crypto laws changed in 2025 — and how they’ll change in 2026
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- Police
- Drugs
- Ireland
- Bitcoin Wallet
- Cybercrime
- Crimes
- Scams & Cybercrime
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