Twelve individuals residing in Spain, including Croatian footballer Ivan Rakitić, are under investigation for alleged fraud related to the cryptocurrency trading company Shirtum Europa. A group of investors filed a lawsuit claiming they were defrauded of approximately three million euros through the purchase of fake NFTs, digital assets linked to football players. The company was allegedly managed by three Catalan entrepreneurs, with footballers acting as promoters of the financial products. The Barcelona court approved the investigation, while the accused are unavailable for comment. Catalan police have previously recorded multiple cases of cryptocurrency-related fraud.
Political Perspectives:
Left: Left-leaning outlets emphasize the risks and lack of regulation in the cryptocurrency market, highlighting how investors, including ordinary people, are vulnerable to scams. They focus on the need for stronger consumer protections and criticize the involvement of celebrities in promoting potentially fraudulent schemes.
Center: Centrist sources report the facts of the investigation, focusing on the legal proceedings and the details of the alleged fraud. They provide balanced coverage, noting the involvement of Ivan Rakitić and other footballers as promoters, while also mentioning the broader context of cryptocurrency fraud cases in Catalonia.
Right: Right-leaning media may emphasize personal responsibility of investors and the dangers of speculative investments like cryptocurrencies. They might also highlight the reputational damage to public figures like Ivan Rakitić and stress the importance of law enforcement actions to maintain market integrity.
