Gotbit CEO Alex Andryunin Arrested in Portugal Amid FBI Investigation
The CEO of Gotbit, a leading cryptocurrency asset management firm, Alex Andryunin, has been arrested in Portugal, with many speculating that the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) played a role in his detention.
While Gotbit has not disclosed specific details surrounding the arrest, the firm confirmed that it is fully committed to proving both the company’s and Andryunin’s innocence. The firm assured its users that it would continue to cooperate with the authorities and provide all necessary documents to assist with the investigation.
“We are ready to cooperate fully with the authorities, providing all necessary documents to support the investigation and promptly resolve this misunderstanding,” Gotbit said in a statement.
The arrest follows rumors connecting Gotbit to a larger FBI sting operation. The FBI had recently launched an initiative targeting market makers allegedly involved in fraudulent schemes such as “pump-and-dump” tactics. The operation included the creation of a fake cryptocurrency token to build relationships with major firms suspected of artificially inflating token prices in exchange for kickbacks.
Gotbit was reportedly caught up in this sting, with accusations suggesting the firm may have been involved in inflating cryptocurrency prices through sham trades.
In an unsealed FBI memo from October 9, it was revealed that multiple individuals, including one based in Portugal, had pleaded guilty to charges related to these illicit activities. This strongly hints that Andryunin’s arrest is linked to the FBI’s investigation into crypto market manipulation.
As of now, Gotbit has not responded to further inquiries regarding the arrest. The situation remains fluid, and the crypto community is awaiting more details.
