In the Czech Republic, police arrested Tomáš Jíříkovský, known as the creator of the darknet platform Sheep Marketplace, in connection with an investigation into a bribery payment of 468 BTC (approximately $45 million). The case is linked to the resignation of Justice Minister Pavel Blažek, which occurred in May 2025.
This is reported by Finway
Details of the Arrest and Suspicions
According to the prosecutor’s office, Jíříkovský attempted to escape during a search by climbing onto the roof of a building, but he was apprehended and taken into custody. Local media reported that he allegedly transferred bitcoins to the minister in hopes of avoiding a new prison sentence.
Jíříkovský gained notoriety back in 2013 when he created the illegal trading platform Sheep Marketplace. After the service was shut down, he embezzled users’ funds. In 2017, he was sentenced to nine years in prison for theft, drug trafficking, and illegal possession of firearms, but he was released on parole in 2021.
Transparency in Cryptocurrencies and New Investigations
The investigation also uncovered a connection between the bribe and the darknet platform Nucleus, which holds 5000 BTC and recently reactivated after a nine-year hiatus. Notably, in March 2025, a transaction of $77.5 million was made from the Nucleus wallet, drawing the attention of analysts.
“Experts note that despite the potential to ensure privacy for ordinary users, large transfers related to criminal activity are easily traceable on the blockchain.”
Trezor analyst Lucien Bourdon emphasized that the transparency of cryptocurrency transactions requires a high level of accountability in financial systems.
The authorities continue their investigation, paying special attention to the safety of the parties involved and witnesses in the case. No final charges have yet been brought against Tomáš Jíříkovský.