Europol shuts down Archetyp Market, longest-running dark web drug site, the police arrested the admin in Spain, top vendors hit in Sweden.
An international law enforcement operation led by German authorities has shut down Archetyp Market, the longest-running dark web drug marketplace, in a coordinated operation across six countries with support from Europol and Eurojust. The market’s administrator was arrested in Spain, and top vendors were targeted in Sweden.
“Between 11 and 13 June, a series of coordinated actions took place across Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain, Sweden, targeting the platform’s administrator, moderators, key vendors, and technical infrastructure. Around 300 officers were deployed to carry out enforcement actions and secure critical evidence.” reads the press release published by Europol. “Archetyp Market operated as a drug marketplace for over five years, amassing more than 600 000 users worldwide with a total transaction volume of at least EUR 250 million. With over 17 000 listings, it is one of the few darknet markets that allowed the sale of fentanyl and other highly potent synthetic opioids, contributing to the growing threat posed by these substances in Europe and beyond.”
A seizure banner now replaces the site, with further info and a video message to the underground posted at www.operation-deepsentinel.com.
The operation led by German authorities shut down Archetyp Market, arresting its admin in Spain and seizing €7.8M in assets. The market enabled large-scale anonymous drug trafficking, including cocaine and synthetic opioids, and ranked among major darknet platforms like Dream Market and Silk Road.
Europol reported that the takedown of Archetyp Market was the result of years of investigation. Authorities traced finances, analyzed digital evidence, and collaborated internationally. Europol and Eurojust coordinated efforts, enabling arrests and asset seizures.
“With this takedown, law enforcement has taken out one of the dark web’s longest-running drug markets, cutting off a major supply line for some of the world’s most dangerous substances. By dismantling its infrastructure and arresting its key players, we are sending a clear message: there is no safe haven for those who profit from harm.” Europol’s Deputy Executive Director of Operations Jean-Philippe Lecouffe said.
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