Core Points - Federal authorities have seized $15 billion worth of bitcoin linked to an alleged international fraud operation involving trafficked workers [1] - Chen Zhi, founder and chairman of Prince Holding Group, is accused of leading a widespread cryptocurrency investment scam that involved forced labor in Cambodia [2] - The scam, referred to as "pig butchering," involved building trust with victims before defrauding them of their savings [5] Company Summary - Prince Holding Group has previously denied involvement in scam operations and has not responded to the latest allegations [3] - Chen Zhi faces charges of wire fraud conspiracy and money laundering conspiracy, with a potential prison sentence of up to 40 years if convicted [3] Industry Summary - The case highlights the alarming scale of investment fraud operations, which are becoming increasingly sophisticated and convincing [4] - "Pig butchering" scams involve scammers posing as acquaintances or love interests to build trust before defrauding victims [5] - Victims are often encouraged to deposit money into fake trading platforms, leading to sudden account locks and loss of funds [6]

Criminal Activity & Asset Seizure - US Government linked LuBian to Chen Zhi's criminal organization involved in 'pig butchering' scams and order fraud [1] - The scams were operated from 'forced labour' internment camps in Cambodia, utilizing human trafficked migrants [1] - Chen Zhi allegedly used online gambling companies and cryptocurrency mining (via LuBian) to conceal the funds' origin [1] - US Government filed for forfeiture of 127,271 BTC, valued at $142 billion, connected to Chen Zhi [1] Key Individuals & Entities - LuBian is implicated in the criminal activities [1] - Chen Zhi, chairman of Prince Group, is alleged to have run large-scale scams [1] Modus Operandi - The criminal organization employed 'pig butchering' scams and order fraud [1] - Cryptocurrency was used to obscure the source of funds [1]