Yerevan-based group posed as US carriers, stole freight and converted proceeds to crypto, Armenian police say

Cyber police in Armenia raided commercial space inside a Yerevan hotel on July 23. Investigators accuse occupants of posing as employees of American freight carriers. The suspects allegedly redirected shipments, sold the goods and converted proceeds into crypto assets. Authorities have not disclosed the total loss or cargo types.

The Armenian Interior Ministry announced the operation Aug. 14. Criminal Police Cybercrime Department officers worked alongside the country’s Investigative Committee. Teams conducted a surprise search following an extensive intelligence investigation. Officials seized evidence considered important to the criminal inquiry.

Suspects allegedly redirected US shipments

Investigators learned that the group used specialized computer equipment and software inside the hotel. Officers identified the suspected members and their individual roles before conducting the raid. The ministry described the operation as an organized scheme involving thefts of “particularly large amounts.” However, officials provided no monetary figure for that description.

“Members of the organization presented themselves as employees of companies transporting freight within the United States,” the translated ministry statement reads. The suspects then gained trust from businesses arranging transportation services. Participants moved those shipments to different locations instead of completing the intended deliveries. Group members later sold the stolen goods.