A recent report from the Global Initiative Against Transnational Organized Crime (GI-TOC) highlights the increasing role of cryptocurrency in criminal activities within the Western Balkans. The organization revealed that tens of millions of euros linked to criminal networks are being routed through crypto wallets, significantly complicating seizure efforts. The region, including countries like Albania and Serbia, has reported only three documented cases of crypto seizure, reflecting a significant challenge for law enforcement in addressing illicit crypto usage. Despite the growing legitimacy of crypto transactions in the area, drug trafficking groups are increasingly leveraging cryptocurrency to obscure and relocate their profits. Only three out of the six Western Balkan countries have adopted laws relevant to digital assets, further complicating efforts to regulate and enforce against illegal crypto activities. As the situation continues to evolve, GI-TOC emphasizes the need for better regulations, advanced blockchain tracking tools, and enhanced international cooperation to combat the growing illicit use of cryptocurrencies in the region.

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