Former Ukrainian police officers allegedly kidnapped crypto entrepreneurs and extorted roughly $2.2 million through violence, intimidation, and fake debt claims. The Kyiv Regional Prosecutor's Office completed a pre-trial investigation into a group including four ex-officers and a civilian, all accused of forming an armed gang, kidnapping, robbery, and extortion. The suspects, formerly of the Main Police Department in Crimea and a Kyiv unit, used official transport and impersonated law enforcement to target at least four victims. In one case, a victim was abducted at gunpoint and forced to sign a fake $5 million debt. The case highlights the rise of crypto 'wrench attacks' where physical coercion is used to steal digital assets. Cybercrime consultant David Sehyeon Baek noted that crypto's borderless, fast transferability makes holders vulnerable to such attacks, especially in high-corruption environments. CertiK reported 72 verified wrench attacks in 2025, a 75% increase from 2024, with losses over $40.9 million.

Key facts

• Four former Ukrainian police officers and a civilian allegedly kidnapped crypto entrepreneurs, extorting $2.2 million.
• Suspects used official transport and impersonated police to target at least four victims.
• Victims were forced at gunpoint to transfer crypto and sign fake debt documents.
• Case highlights global rise in crypto 'wrench attacks' using physical coercion.
• CertiK reported 72 wrench attacks in 2025, a 75% increase from 2024.