The darknet world has once again been rocked by a significant takedown, as U.S. authorities successfully extradited Milomir Desnica, the alleged operator behind the notorious Monopoly Market. Desnica, a 33-year-old dual citizen of Croatia and Serbia, is facing charges related to running a major darknet drug trafficking platform that facilitated approximately $18 million in illegal drug transactions using cryptocurrency.
The Rise and Fall of Monopoly Market
Monopoly Market, which emerged in late 2019, quickly gained a reputation as a go-to hub for illegal drug transactions on the darknet. Under Desnica’s alleged leadership, the market offered a wide range of illicit substances, including opioids, stimulants, psychedelics, and prescription medications. Vendors on Monopoly were required to complete an application process, providing descriptions and photographic proof of their inventory, along with agreeing to pay a commission on sales.
Desnica is accused of directly overseeing these operations, approving vendor applications and knowingly facilitating the sale of narcotics. The platform thrived for several years, with law enforcement making multiple undercover purchases, including over 100 grams of methamphetamine.
The International Manhunt and Extradition
The indictment against Desnica was initially handed down by a grand jury in July 2022, charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, as well as conspiracy to launder money. The charges carry severe penalties, including a potential life sentence and substantial financial penalties.
After evading capture for months, Desnica was apprehended in November 2022 in Austria, thanks to the combined efforts of the Austrian Fugitive Active Search Team (FAST) and other international partners. Following his arrest, authorities conducted a thorough search of his residence and vehicle, seizing electronics and cash.
Desnica was extradited to the United States in May 2023 to face charges in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia. His arraignment is pending, and the outcome of his case could set a precedent for future darknet marketplace prosecutions.
The Takedown of Monopoly Market
Monopoly Market’s downfall began in December 2021, when German and Finnish law enforcement, in coordination with U.S. authorities, seized the server hosting the marketplace. This seizure allowed investigators to analyze records of drug sales, cryptocurrency transactions, and communications between the market’s operator and vendors. Through this extensive investigation, Desnica was identified as the mastermind behind Monopoly Market.
In May 2023, Europol announced the arrest of 288 individuals connected to drug trafficking on Monopoly Market. The operation, which was one of the largest darknet busts to date, also led to the seizure of over $53.4 million in cash and virtual currencies, as well as 850 kilograms of drugs. These arrests surpassed previous darknet takedowns, including the operations against DarkMarket in 2021 and Wall Street Market in 2019.
A Blow to the Darknet Ecosystem
While law enforcement authorities acknowledge that the takedown of Monopoly Market won’t eliminate the underground drug trade, it undoubtedly disrupts operations for some time. Attorney General Merrick Garland noted that such actions are crucial in destabilizing the darknet economy and sending a strong message to those involved in illegal activities.
Conclusion
The Monopoly Market bust marks a significant victory in the ongoing battle against darknet drug trafficking. As Milomir Desnica faces trial, the case serves as a reminder of the global efforts required to combat these sophisticated criminal enterprises. The takedown of Monopoly Market not only led to the apprehension of hundreds of individuals but also struck a major blow to the illicit drug trade, demonstrating that even the darknet’s most elusive operators can be brought to justice.
