Ukrainian Former Police Officers Kidnap Crypto Entrepreneur, Extort $2.2 Million; Investigation into Gang Completed

Odaily Planet Daily News A group of former police officers in Ukraine is suspected of kidnapping a cryptocurrency entrepreneur and extorting approximately $2.2 million through violence, intimidation, and fabricated debts.

Prosecutors stated that the gang targeted at least four victims, using their law enforcement experience, official vehicles, and impersonating police officers to carry out the crimes. The Kyiv Regional Prosecutor's Office said that the pre-trial investigation has been completed. The suspects include four former police officers and one civilian with a prior criminal record, but they have not yet been formally charged in connection with the aforementioned cases.

The report notes that this case occurs amid a global rise in "wrench attacks" (using violent coercion to obtain digital assets) targeting cryptocurrency holders. (Decrypt)