Ukrainian Police Officers Allegedly Kidnapped Crypto Entrepreneurs to Extort Millions
Kyiv prosecutors say four former Ukrainian police officers and a civilian used their law-enforcement skills to run a kidnapping and extortion ring targeting crypto entrepreneurs, stealing more than $2.2 million through violent “wrench attacks.” The suspects allegedly tracked victims, abducted them at gunpoint, held them in undisclosed locations, and forced them to transfer money or sign fake debt documents. Prosecutors accuse them of forming an armed gang, kidnapping, unlawful imprisonment, robbery, extortion, and drug possession. Two colonels reportedly organized the group while still serving in police units, using official vehicles, encrypted chats, and police impersonation to carry out the crimes. One victim in Kyiv was allegedly forced to create a fake $5 million debt. The case has been sent to court. The incident reflects a broader rise in violent crypto thefts worldwide, where attackers exploit physical coercion rather than hacking.
