Ekaterina Zhdanova Accused in Money Laundering Network

A significant international money laundering scheme has been uncovered, involving a network operated by Russian socialite Ekaterina Zhdanova, who is currently in custody in France. The operation, exposed by the UK's National Crime Agency (NCA), spanned over 30 countries and facilitated the laundering of billions for criminal organizations, including the Kinahan Cartel. Zhdanova, described as a glamorous businesswoman, used her social media influence to promote her businesses while secretly managing a sophisticated laundering network that exchanged cash for untraceable cryptocurrency. Authorities revealed that the network also aided Russian oligarchs and hackers in disguising illicit funds, with connections to government entities. The investigation, which began during the pandemic's lockdown, highlighted the previously invisible links between Russian elites, cybercriminals, and UK drug gangs. This crackdown is part of a broader law enforcement effort known as Operation Destabilise, targeting two major laundering networks, Smart and TGR.