Tax Authority Warns of Complex Crypto Deals After Arrest

The Israel Tax Authority has revealed an investigation into a Haifa resident, Leonid Lefshov, who is suspected of violating tax and money laundering laws through cryptocurrency transactions totaling approximately NIS 2 million (about $550,000 USD) between 2019 and 2020. Lefshov, who primarily resides abroad, was arrested and subsequently released under restrictive conditions, including a travel ban and passport confiscation.

The investigation, led by the Haifa and North Tax Investigations Unit, alleges that Lefshov operated on an international virtual currency trading platform, conducting sales and conversions of digital assets. Evidence gathered by the tax authorities was presented to Lefshov during his interrogation.

Further suspicions include Lefshov's possession of three Russian bank accounts between 2019 and 2021. One account reportedly held around $500,000 USD, another approximately 600,000 rubles, and a third about 20,000 euros. He is also suspected of other violations under the Income Tax Ordinance and the Prohibition on Money Laundering Law.

Lefshov appeared before the Haifa Magistrate's Court, which ordered his release under restrictive conditions, including a 180-day travel ban and the surrender of his passport. The investigation is ongoing.