London. British sprinter Chijindu Ujah has been arrested in connection with an alleged cryptocurrency fraud investigation linked to an organised digital scam network. Investigators said the network allegedly targeted victims through fake phone calls and impersonation tactics to obtain confidential crypto wallet credentials and drain funds.
Fake Calls and Seed Phrase Theft Under Probe
Britain’s Regional Organised Crime Unit Network said 10 people have been arrested in the investigation, including Ujah. He was later granted bail by a magistrates’ court, while the matter remains under investigation.
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Authorities alleged that the network impersonated police officers and representatives of cryptocurrency companies. Victims were reportedly contacted and told that their digital wallets or crypto accounts were under threat.
Investigators said callers then asked victims to share seed phrases and other sensitive credentials under the pretext of security verification. Once the information was shared, funds stored in the wallets were allegedly transferred out and stolen.
One Victim Reportedly Lost Over £300,000
According to investigators, one victim alone is believed to have lost more than £300,000, equivalent to nearly ₹3.4 crore. Authorities are now examining how many people were targeted and how the stolen cryptocurrency was moved through digital channels.
Investigators are also reviewing blockchain trails, digital devices and online communication records to trace the broader network and identify possible financial beneficiaries.
Athletics Career Faces Fresh Controversy
Ujah was part of Britain’s 4×100 metres relay team that won the world championship title in 2017 and also secured European relay titles in 2016 and 2018. His sporting career had earlier faced controversy after he was handed a 22-month ban for a doping violation during the Tokyo Olympics, which led to Britain’s relay team being stripped of its silver medal.
British Athletics declined to comment on the ongoing investigation, and no immediate public statement was issued on Ujah’s behalf.
Authorities said the probe is continuing, and further arrests or financial disclosures may emerge as investigators examine the alleged organised crypto fraud operation.
