The UK's police and the National Crime Agency (NCA) have been given increased authority to seize Bitcoin involved in criminal activity. From April 26, law enforcement officers will have the power to "seize, freeze, and destroy" Bitcoin used for "illicit purposes."

Under the new regulations, which are an outcome of a crime bill passed by the U.K. parliament in 2023, the police will not be required to make an arrest before seizing Bitcoin holdings. The U.K. Home Office detailed in a press release that this measure will also allow the police to confiscate related items such as passwords or memory sticks that could be instrumental in criminal investigations.

The updated powers include provisions for the police to transfer confiscated Bitcoin into wallets controlled by the authorities. Moreover, victims of crime will have the opportunity to reclaim funds from these accounts.

Home Secretary James Cleverly stated, "Criminals must not profit from illegal activities." He asserted the use of Bitcoin fundraising by terrorist organizations, claiming that the new powers will help "strip them of their assets."

This development in the U.K. reflects a global trend where governments and law enforcement agencies are intensifying efforts against Bitcoin privacy measures. This was evidenced by the recent arrest of the founders of Bitcoin mixer Samourai Wallet by U.S. authorities on April 24, on charges related to money laundering.

Press Release

Cointelegraph