Bitcoin Ransom Kidnappers Arrested in Malaysia

Six Malaysian residents have been charged with kidnapping a Chinese national and his companion, demanding a ransom of $1.1 million in bitcoin. This was reported by local media.

According to the case materials, the incident occurred on July 11. The victims were attacked at a highway exit near the city of Cyberjaya. They were held for several days and released on July 15 after the Chinese national’s brother paid the demanded cryptocurrency ransom.

Subsequently, police identified four suspects, who were killed in a shootout on August 1, including the kidnapping’s mastermind. Four accomplices remain at large. The accused are allegedly debt collectors.

A search uncovered 1.5 million ringgit ($337,500) in cash, six luxury watches, six bags, and several vehicles.

The detainees pleaded not guilty, but the court denied them bail.

The defendants face up to 40 years in prison and caning. The next hearing is scheduled for October 8.

Earlier, ForkLog reported that Kyiv police are investigating the kidnapping and murder of a foreign national to seize his cryptocurrency worth over $170,000.