Russian Crypto Entrepreneurs Kidnapped in Argentina for $43,000 Ransom

Two Russian crypto entrepreneurs were briefly kidnapped in Buenos Aires in yet another attempt to achieve a ransom in crypto. The criminals received $43,000 in ransom, fleeing to the UAE after releasing the couple.

Reportedly, neither of the victims was seriously injured, and an outside acquaintance paid the ransom. Interpol subsequently put out a red notice for the perpetrators’ arrest.

Latest Crypto Kidnapping in Argentina

Local media coverage provides several key details about this incident. For example, all five of the story’s main actors are Russian citizens: the victims, kidnappers, and the outside friend who paid the crypto ransom.

The two unnamed victims lived in Palermo, a long-standing hub of Argentina’s crypto community. Still, a lot of information remains under wraps.

These Russian crypto entrepreneurs were led to their kidnapping by a dinner invitation, but it’s not clear if they had any previous relationship with their assailants.

In any event, the attackers tied them up shortly afterward, demanding a $43,000 ransom. Apparently, their friend paid this quickly in a single transaction.

Local reports don’t mention any serious physical harm, and the couple was rescued within 24 hours. The woman managed to call for help from the apartment’s balcony, leading the police to discover that the kidnappers had long since fled.

These men quickly made it to the nearest airport and flew to the UAE.

Scene of the Crypto Kidnapping. Source: Todo Noticias

Now that Interpol is looking for these Russian kidnappers, their arrest will hopefully follow. In an interesting twist, Judge María Romilda Servini was appointed to supervise the criminal case.

Judge Servini has appeared in several crypto-related prosecutions, ordering scrutiny of President Milei and consulting on Hayden Davis’ arrest warrant.

Crypto kidnappings are on the rise worldwide as a disturbing trend develops. An Italian millionaire was tortured in the US, and a crime ring orchestrated several violent attacks in France.

These Russian kidnappers only asked for a comparatively small crypto ransom, but they got their money. If the authorities don’t arrest them soon, this success could inspire even more copycats.