Hong Kong Charges 16 in $205 Million JPEX Crypto Fraud Probe
Hong Kong authorities have charged 16 individuals, including influencer Joseph Lam Chok, in connection with the $205 million JPEX crypto fraud case, marking a significant expansion of the investigation. The charges include fraud, conspiracy to defraud, and money laundering under Hong Kong's anti-money-laundering laws, following a two-year investigation into the unlicensed cryptocurrency exchange. Over 2,700 investors were reportedly defrauded through JPEX's network of influencers and retail shops. Lam had earlier been arrested for promoting JPEX on social media, despite warnings from the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) regarding the exchange's unlicensed status. The police have issued Interpol red notices for three alleged ringleaders who remain at large. Investigators have made over 80 arrests and seized approximately $28 million in assets related to the case. Legal experts suggest that individuals promoting false claims about JPEX could face liability for their actions, regardless of their knowledge of the fraudulent activities. The SFC has announced new measures to enhance cryptocurrency transparency following this scandal.
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