FEB 4

E32: Illicit Finance, Asset Recovery & the Reality of Global Crime Networks

Aidan Larkin sits down with Sal Melki, Deputy Director at the UK’s National Crime Agency and senior leader at the National Economic Crime Centre, to unpack how illicit finance really works today, from local cash couriers to global money laundering networks. Sal shares frontline insight on why money laundering is now easier than ever, how technology and crypto are reshaping criminal networks, and what actually works when disrupting and recovering criminal assets at scale. We also dive into Operation Destabilise, public-private data fusion, and why asset recovery has become one of law enforcement's most powerful tools against serious organised crime. ⏱️ Timestamps 00:00 – Introductions and Overview of the NCA and NECC 04:30 - Evolution of Organized Crime Networks 09:40 - AI, Synthetic Identities, and Emerging Threats 17:30 - Public-Private Partnerships & Data Fusion 28:40 - Crypto as an Asset Class 36:50 - Operation Destabilize 39:55 - Money Laundering as a Service 46:20 - Future Priorities 👤 About Our Guest Sal Melki is a Deputy Director at the UK National Crime Agency and a senior leader at the National Economic Crime Centre, where he leads the response to illicit finance, money laundering, and asset recovery. With a background in the Metropolitan Police and Counter Terrorism Policing, Sal works at the centre of the UK’s public‑private effort to disrupt serious organised crime. 🔑 Key Takeaways Illicit Finance is the System Asset recovery is not a side quest. It is central to disrupting organised crime, from drugs and fraud to sanctions evasion. Money Laundering Has Scaled Professional laundering networks now operate like service providers, using cash, crypto, shell companies, and technology to move value globally. Technology Cuts Both Ways AI, crypto, and automation are making crime easier, but they are also powerful tools when law enforcement and the private sector work together. Data Fusion Beats Silos Proactive, shared intelligence across banks, crypto firms, and law enforcement delivers far more impact than reactive reporting alone. Disruption Matters You do not always need to arrest the kingpin. Taking money, increasing friction, and targeting facilitators change behaviour fast. 📚 Resources Mentioned National Crime Agency (NCA) National Economic Crime Centre (NECC) Operation Destabilise The Record | Inside Operation Destabilise INTERPOL Silver Notice Basel Institute on Governance | INTERPOL Silver Notice Explained 📬 Stay Connected If you found this episode useful, make sure you: Subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen Follow Asset Reality on LinkedIn for updates, resources, and future episodes Share this episode with colleagues working in asset recovery, investigations, or financial crime ⚠️ Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

50 min

12/20/2025 · BONUS

BONUS: Aidan Larkin on Times Radio: What happens after a £5.1bn crypto seizure?

This episode was originally recorded for Times Radio on 13th November 2025. In this special bonus episode, Aidan Larkin joins Hugo Rifkind on Times Radio to discuss what happens after a major seizure and why the landmark £5.1bn crypto seizure could redefine how governments handle digital assets. In November 2025, a Chinese national dubbed the “Bit Queen” was sentenced to several years in prison for orchestrating a staggering £5.1 billion cryptocurrency Ponzi scheme. The case made headlines worldwide, not just for its scale, but for the questions it raises about the future of asset recovery in a digital age. Aidan and Hugo explore: What happens after billions in crypto are seizedHow governments navigate cross-border asset recoveryThe diplomatic and legal challenges of returning funds to victimsWhy this case could set a global precedent for managing digital assets Resources Crypto Seizures: A Turning Point for Global Asset Recovery BBC News: Cryptoqueen who fled China for London mansion jailed over £5bn Bitcoin stash Stay Connected Subscribe to Seize & Desist for all the latest insights on asset recovery. Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

8 min

12/05/2025

Ep. 31: Inside the 'Scamdemic' with Operation Shamrock

Aidan Larkin sits down with Erin West and Detective Matthew Hogan of Operation Shamrock to unpack the global 'scamdemic' that’s devastating victims and fuelling organised crime, exploring the human cost behind crypto-enabled fraud. Erin and Matthew share frontline insights on why law enforcement struggles to keep pace, how AI is supercharging scams and what systemic changes are urgently needed. We also spotlight Asset Reality’s new strategic alliance with Operation Shamrock, aimed at closing the enforcement gap and accelerating victim restitution worldwide. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 03:30 – The Scamdemic: How pig-butchering scams evolved and scaled globally 10:00 – AI and the psychology of scams 15:00 – Human trafficking and scam compounds 20:00 – Law enforcement challenges 29:00 – Why crypto recovery is easier than you think 46:00 – Social media’s role in enabling scams 59:00 – Community, Collaboration and the Crypto Coalition About Our Guests Erin West is the founder of Operation Shamrock, a nonprofit dedicated to disrupting the scam industry through education, advocacy and law enforcement support. After 26 years as a prosecutor, Erin now leads global efforts to fight transnational organized crime and protect victims. Matthew Hogan is a detective with the Connecticut State Police and co-founder of its cryptocurrency working group. He serves on the Secret Service Financial Crimes Task Force and works tirelessly to recover assets for victims of crypto-enabled fraud. Key Takeaways The Scamdemic is Industrial: Pig-butchering scams and sextortion are run from compounds housing tens of thousands of trafficked workers, weaponizing AI and psychological manipulation. Law Enforcement is Outpaced: Crypto recovery is technically easier than physical asset recovery, but resource gaps, bureaucracy and lack of training stall progress. Systemic Change is Needed: From unified reporting systems to breaking down silos, collaboration across law enforcement, tech platforms and financial institutions is critical. Our Partnership with Operation Shamrock Asset Reality and Operation Shamrock have formed a global strategic alliance to: Deliver monthly free crypto seizure training to U.S. and international law enforcement via the Crypto Coalition. Develop standardized playbooks for intake, seizure, and investigation workflows. Launch a global advocacy initiative making victim restitution a core success metric for crypto enforcement. As Aidan Larkin says: “This isn’t just about crypto, it’s about systemic change. If we empower local agencies with the right playbook and tools, we can disrupt billion-dollar networks before the funds vanish.” Learn more Resources Operation Shamrock Crypto Coalition Chainalysis Report: Seizable Crypto Assets in 2025 Stay Connected Subscribe to Seize & Desist for all the latest insights on asset recovery. Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

1h 3m

11/25/2025

Ep. 30: Courts, Crypto & Code: Making Sense of Digital Asset Law

Aidan Larkin talks with Canadian lawyer Jessica Stansfield about the evolving landscape of digital asset recovery. From tackling cryptocurrency fraud to navigating the complexities of tracing assets on the blockchain, Jessica shares her experience helping victims overcome legal and enforcement challenges. She also explores emerging trends, the growing role of technology in asset recovery, and the provocative debate around the idea that ‘Code is Law.’ Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Background 03:00 – Asset Recovery in the Digital Age 09:00 – The Role of Blockchain in Asset Recovery 12:00 – Victim Perspectives in Cryptocurrency Fraud 18:00 – Legal Framework for Asset Recovery in Canada 23:55 – Future Trends in Asset Recovery and Code is Law About our Guest Jessica Stansfield is a leading authority in digital asset recovery and fraud litigation. As a Canadian commercial litigator, she has built a reputation for tackling complex cases involving cryptocurrency and emerging technologies. Known for her innovative approach, she leverages open-source intelligence and cutting-edge legal frameworks to trace and reclaim digital assets. Key Takeaways Complexity in Asset Recovery: Fragmented frameworks and jurisdictional hurdles make asset recovery a challenging area of law that requires creative legal strategies and innovative investigative techniques. Digital Asset Fraud on the Rise: The explosion of cryptocurrency and digital assets has created new avenues for fraud, from elaborate scams to meme coin price manipulation, demanding specialised legal expertise to protect victims and recover stolen funds. Power of Open-Source Intelligence: Publicly available data enables asset tracing without traditional legal constraints, making open-source intelligence a game-changer in fraud investigations. Canadian Legal Tools: Canada’s courts provide powerful mechanisms for asset recovery. Mareva injunctions can freeze assets, while Norwich orders compel disclosure of critical information. Global Cooperation Matters: International collaboration is vital for overcoming jurisdictional challenges and ensuring effective enforcement across multiple legal systems. The ‘Code is Law’ Debate: As smart contracts become more prevalent, ethical and legal questions arise. Should exploiting code loopholes be considered fraud? Future-Proofing Asset Recovery: Shifts in regulatory enforcement and judicial interpretation will define how asset recovery adapts to emerging technologies and new forms of fraud. Resources Weirfoulds | Jessica Stansfield - Insights BBC News | Quadriga: The cryptocurrency exchange that lost $135m Weirfoulds | Rule of Law ‘2’, Code is Law ‘0’? The Globe and Mail Feature | Medjedovic Case Seize & Desist - Erin West Asset Recovery International | Dublin Feb 25 - 27 Stay Connected Dive deeper into asset recovery by subscribing to Seize & Desist Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

35 min

11/20/2025

Ep. 29: A New Era of Economic Crime Control

What does it take to fight economic crime on a global scale? In this episode of Seize and Desist, Aidan Larkin speaks with Adrian Searle, former director of the National Economic Crime Centre (NECC), who takes us inside its unique multi-agency approach to tackling financial crime. Adrian explains why collaboration across law enforcement, government, and the private sector matters, how global information sharing is reshaping the fight, and the roles of technology and AI in driving global financial intelligence and asset recovery. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Background 03:00 - Bridging Public and Private Sectors Responses 13:30 – Collaboration and Information Sharing 20:00– Technology and AI in Economic Crime 43:55 – Future Directions and Challenges in Asset Recovery About our Guest Adrian Searle is a leading authority on economic crime and financial intelligence. As former Director of the UK’s National Economic Crime Centre (NECC), he helped shape a multi-agency approach to tackling financial crime, driving collaboration between law enforcement, government, and industry. Today, Adrian works in the private sector, championing innovation, real-time intelligence sharing, and technology-driven solutions to strengthen asset recovery and disrupt illicit finance. Key Takeaways NECC’s Multi-Agency Model: The UK’s National Economic Crime Centre (NECC) is a uniquely collaborative unit that unites agencies to combat economic crime more effectively, enabling a full-spectrum approach to economic crime. Collaboration as a Force Multiplier: Meaningful cooperation across law enforcement, government, and industry is essential to disrupting economic crime. Global Information Sharing at Scale: Robust domestic and international information sharing is vital to addressing fast-moving economic crime threats. Quality Over Quantity in Data: A focus on higher-quality data is critical for better insights, decision-making, and operational outcomes. Real-Time Financial Crime Intervention: Real-time detection and intervention, especially in the realm of cryptoassets, offer promising new avenues for halting illicit activities as they occur. Technology and AI as Enablers: There is a significant opportunity to leverage emerging technologies and AI for better data interpretation and intelligence processing, although challenges like data integration and accuracy remain significant hurdles. Resources National Crime Agency (NCA) | National Economic Crime Centre (NECC) LinkedIn | National Economic Crime Centre (NECC) NCA | 10 years of the Joint Money Laundering Intelligence Taskforce (JMLIT) Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) Stay Connected Dive deeper into the world of asset recovery by subscribing to Seize & Desist Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

55 min

11/13/2025

Ep. 28: Property: Crime’s Favourite Laundromat

When billions in dirty money move through hidden pipelines, who stops it? In this episode, Aidan Larkin speaks with investigative journalist and co-founder of the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP), Paul Radu, about the uphill battle to reclaim stolen assets. Paul reveals how real estate has become a global laundromat for illicit cash and why political will and public accountability are often missing from the fight. They delve into the collision of cash and crypto in laundering schemes, the role of technology in exposing networks, and why professional enablers must be held accountable for facilitating financial crime. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Background 03:00 – Scale of Illicit Finance and Asset Recovery 08:50 – Real Estate, Political Will, and Law Enforcement Challenges 17:45 – Public Accountability, Global Coordination, and Citizen Involvement 23:50 – Technology, Crypto, and the Future of Money Laundering 29:55 – Transparency, Professional Enablers, and Concluding Thoughts About our Guest Paul Radu is an investigative journalist and co-founder of the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). Over the past 20 years, he has investigated corruption, organized crime, and illicit financial networks across Europe and beyond. Through his reporting, he exposes systemic corruption and criminal enterprises, providing critical insight into asset recovery, financial crime, and the global fight for accountability. Key Takeaways The Scale of Illicit Finance: Illicit finance totals around $3 trillion annually, with a significant portion invested in real estate, which criminals use to store assets and worsen housing crises. The Role of Investigative Journalism: Investigative journalists often uncover corruption and criminal networks, providing evidence that prompts law enforcement action. Political Will and Public Accountability: Strong political support is essential for launching large-scale investigations, and public scrutiny can drive local authorities to act against illicit finance. Global Coordination and Transparency: Effective asset recovery requires international collaboration and data transparency, enabling citizens and authorities to track and challenge illicit asset ownership. Professional Enablers and Criminal Innovation: Lawyers, bankers, and other enablers must be held accountable, and traditional money laundering methods remain important despite the rise of crypto. Resources Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP) OCCRP Report: Dubai Unlocked The Independent: Protesting dirty-money luxury homes in London Stay Connected Dive deeper into the world of asset recovery by subscribing to Seize & Desist Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

54 min

11/03/2025

Ep. 27: Tracking the Changing Face of Fraud

In this conversation, Aidan Larkin sits down with Rich Lebel, Director of the Transaction Record Analysis Center (TRAC), to unpack the strategies law enforcement uses to stay ahead of digital money laundering and crypto-enabled fraud. They examine sophisticated laundering schemes, the rise of crypto ATM fraud, and the challenges of cross-border investigations, highlighting why collaboration, training, and accountability are essential for effective asset recovery. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Background 03:00 – The Birth, Mission, and Growth of TRAC 08:57 – Data Collection and Its Implications 11:57 – The Rise of Crypto ATMs and Fraud 17:57 – Law Enforcement Challenges and Future Directions 33:05 – Regulating Bitcoin ATMs and Crypto Transactions 41:46 – International Cooperation and Training for Law Enforcement About our Guest Rich Lebel leads the Transaction Record Analysis Center (TRAC), using global money transfer data to support law enforcement in tackling money laundering, crypto-related fraud, and other financial crimes. With over 20 years in complex criminal investigations, he provides training, analytical insight, and champions international cooperation in asset recovery. Key Takeaways Origins of TRAC: TRAC was established following a settlement with Western Union, creating a centralised resource for law enforcement to access transactional data. Role of Data Analysis: Analysing transactional data helps law enforcement identify crime patterns, trace funds, and anticipate emerging threats. Evolving Money Laundering Tactics: The rise of crypto ATMs and digital assets has changed how criminals move and layer illicit funds, requiring new investigative approaches. Challenges with Crypto ATMs: Crypto ATMs are frequently used for fraudulent activities, yet regulatory oversight in the US remains limited. Importance of Data Sharing: Collaboration and data sharing between agencies are critical for effective investigations and adapting to rapidly changing criminal tactics. Training and Awareness for Law Enforcement: Continuous training and awareness are essential for law enforcement to tackle new technologies and sophisticated money laundering methods. Adapting to Criminal Innovation: Criminals are evolving quickly to evade detection, making proactive strategies and technology adoption vital for asset recovery efforts. Resources Mentioned Webinar: The Hard Truth About Asset Seizure Crypto Training on Asset Reality’s Academy TRAC on the Wall Street Journal Tornado Cash Case Miles Johnson on Seize & Desist Stay Connected Dive deeper into the world of asset recovery by subscribing to Seize & Desist. Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

56 min

10/29/2025

Ep. 26: From Seizure to Sale: Turning Seized Crypto into Usable Funds

In this episode of Seize and Desist, Aidan is joined by Nils von Schoenaich-Carolath (Chief Growth Officer at Tradias) to explore the challenges governments face when liquidating seized digital assets. They unpack the operational and regulatory hurdles involved, from compliance and whitelisting to best practices in asset management, and examine how collaboration with crypto-native institutions can support secure and effective liquidation. Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction and Background 09:50 – The Liquidation Process for Seized Crypto 15:30 – Challenges and Best Practices in Asset Liquidation 26:00 – Understanding Market Dynamics: Bids, Asks & OTC Trades 32:40 – Operational Security & Preventing Transaction Errors 39:30 – The Future of Asset Management and Regulation About our Guest Nils von Schoenaich-Carolath is Chief Growth Officer at Tradias, the digital asset trading arm of Bankhaus Scheich. With a background in capital markets and digital finance, Nils plays a key role in developing infrastructure for institutional crypto trading and tokenization. He has led initiatives to support secure and compliant liquidation of seized digital assets, working closely with public authorities and legal experts. His work bridges traditional finance and blockchain innovation, helping shape the future of regulated digital asset markets. Key Takeaways Liquidating Seized Crypto: Managing seized digital assets is complex and requires precision to safeguard value, ensure compliance, and protect public funds. Regulatory Clarity and Compliance: Clear frameworks and adherence to financial and legal standards are essential for transparent, traceable, and accountable asset management. Operational Security: Robust controls, including whitelisting, test transfers, and dual oversight, are vital to prevent errors and minimise risk in asset handling. Managing Market Impact: Large-scale liquidations can disrupt markets, so structured trades and careful planning are critical to maintain stability and confidence. Collaboration and the Future of Asset Management: Effective recovery relies on coordination between public and private sectors, continuous learning, and exploring strategies like yield generation and smarter reinvestment. Resources Mentioned Tradias CNBC: Germany's $2 Billion Bitcoin Sale FATF’s latest guidance on asset recovery 9th Global Conference on Criminal Finances and Cryptoassets Stay Connected Dive deeper into the world of asset recovery by subscribing to Seize & Desist. Disclaimer Our podcasts are for informational purposes only. They are not intended to provide legal, tax, financial, and/or investment advice. Listeners must consult their own advisors before making decisions on the topics discussed. Asset Reality has no responsibility or liability for any decision made or any other acts or omissions in connection with your use of this material. The views expressed by guests are their own and their appearance on the program does not imply an endorsement of them or any entity they represent. Views and opinions expressed by Asset Reality employees are those of the employees and do not necessarily reflect the views of the company. Asset Reality does not guarantee or warrant the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, suitability or validity of the information in any particular podcast and will not be responsible for any claim attributable to errors, omissions, or other inaccuracies of any part of such material. Unless stated otherwise, reference to any specific product or entity does not constitute an endorsement or recommendation by Asset Reality.

52 min

Seize & Desist

Episodes

E32: Illicit Finance, Asset Recovery & the Reality of Global Crime Networks

BONUS: Aidan Larkin on Times Radio: What happens after a £5.1bn crypto seizure?

Ep. 31: Inside the 'Scamdemic' with Operation Shamrock

Ep. 30: Courts, Crypto & Code: Making Sense of Digital Asset Law

Ep. 29: A New Era of Economic Crime Control

Ep. 28: Property: Crime’s Favourite Laundromat

Ep. 27: Tracking the Changing Face of Fraud

Ep. 26: From Seizure to Sale: Turning Seized Crypto into Usable Funds

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