Two former Ukrainian police officers suspected of kidnapping cryptocurrency practitioners and extorting over $2.2 million BlockBeats News: On May 30th, Ukrainian prosecutors completed an investigation into a heinous crime case targeting cryptocurrency practitioners. The prosecution claims that two former Ukrainian police colonels are suspected of organizing a criminal gang and illegally obtaining approximately $2.2 million from multiple cryptocurrency entrepreneurs through kidnapping, illegal detention, and extortion. The investigation shows that the gang is composed of four former police officers and one civilian with a criminal record. They have used law enforcement experience, official vehicles, and encrypted communication tools to commit crimes. The victims include at least four individuals in the cryptocurrency industry who were tracked, kidnapped at gunpoint, and forced to surrender funds or sign fictitious debt documents. One of the victims was kidnapped at gunpoint in Kiev, forced to sign a false debt agreement worth $5 million, and subsequently transferred to multiple secret locations for detention. The prosecutor stated that the gang was dismantled in November 2025, and all personnel involved have been relieved of their police duties. The case has now been transferred to the court for trial. According to reports, incidents of cryptocurrency related 'wrench attacks' are continuing to increase. According to data from blockchain security company CertiK, a total of 72 verified cases of cryptocurrency violent extortion were recorded worldwide in 2025, a year-on-year increase of 75%, with losses exceeding $40.9 million. France has recorded 135 cases of cryptocurrency related violence since 2023, with 88 suspects prosecuted in April of this year. [Original link]