HomeThe decision of the Interpol Commission on the cybercrime case: legal collisions in the Russia-Belarus connection
International search related to high-tech crimes and cryptocurrency operations is becoming an increasingly frequent tool of pressure. In this case, the client faced a serious legal challenge: a diffusion notice from Interpol was issued against them at the request of law enforcement agencies of the Russian Federation. The accusation concerned large-scale fraud committed using blockchain technologies and specialized online platforms. The alleged damage amounted to billions of rubles, which automatically made the case a priority for investigative authorities.
The situation was complicated by the transboundary nature of the case, affecting the interests of Russia and Belarus. The presence of active information in Interpol’s databases about an active arrest warrant created critical risks for the client, including detention anywhere in the world, subsequent extradition, and complete blockage of financial activity. In response to these actions, a procedure for appeal was initiated with the Commission for the Control of Interpol’s Files (CCF).
Procedural failure: the right to defense against the system
The Russian side insisted that the criminal prosecution was lawful and the client was the organizer of a criminal group that was stealing cryptocurrency. However, a detailed legal audit of the case materials conducted by the defense revealed fundamental violations of human rights and national legislation. The key argument was the proof of the illegality of the initial arrest warrant.
The defense demonstrated that the court of first instance issued a decision to place the individual in custody in the absence of a lawyer, ignoring official notifications about the impossibility of their participation. Later, the appellate court recognized this as a gross procedural violation and overturned the arrest decision. This legal fact became leverage for influencing Interpol: the organization has no right to store and use data based on invalid or annulled judicial acts.
Analysis of evidence and jurisdiction issues
Apart from procedural aspects, the lawyers questioned the very validity of the cybercrime charges. The complaint to the Commission pointed out the lack of a direct connection between the client and specific cryptocurrency wallets through which the funds were withdrawn. The investigation failed to confirm the applicant’s physical control over the servers or operations during the specified period.
Moreover, an acute issue of jurisdiction arose: a significant part of the events took place outside the Russian Federation, and the alleged victims were foreign citizens. This allowed the defense to argue that Russia was attempting to extend its jurisdiction to events not directly related to it, using Interpol as a global tool of administrative pressure.
Decision of the Commission: data adjustment and recognition of violations
The Interpol Files Control Commission, having reviewed the defense’s arguments, made a balanced decision. The regulator confirmed that the initial arrest warrant was issued in violation of the right to defense, making its presence in the international database inadmissible. Despite the fact that the Russian side later attempted to legitimize the prosecution through a new judicial act, the Commission ordered the immediate removal of information about the old warrant and correction of data in the system.
Although at this stage it did not lead to the complete removal of the file, the result became strategically important. INTERPOL’s acknowledgment of the fact that the data was obtained in violation of procedure significantly weakened the prosecution’s position when attempting detentions in third countries. This decision set a precedent, confirming that INTERPOL is not a “voicemail” for investigative authorities but a structure obligated to adhere to minimum standards of justice.
Faced with an international search for cybercrimes?
Cases related to cryptocurrency, online fraud, and hacker attacks are often accompanied by procedural violations on the part of the investigation. If you find yourself in the Interpol database at the request of Russia, Belarus, or other CIS countries, and the accusation itself is based on questionable evidence or illegal warrants — your situation is not hopeless.
Timely consultation with a lawyer specializing in international and extradition law will help you:
- Challenge the legality of the arrest warrant and achieve its removal from Interpol’s databases.
- Protect your rights in the Commission for File Control (CCF) in Lyon.
- Minimize the risks of detention and prepare the ground for a complete restoration of your international reputation.
If your case resembles the one described above, do not wait for an arrest at the border. Start defending your right to freedom and a fair trial today. You can contact me for professional consultation and strategy development for your case.
