$43K in Crypto Paid to Free Kidnapped Russian Pair

A recent kidnapping in Buenos Aires has intensified concerns over the rising wave of crypto-related abductions worldwide.

In this latest case, a Russian couple—operators of a local cryptocurrency business—were lured into a trap by two fellow Russian nationals.

What began as a dinner invitation in the upscale Palermo district, a known center of Argentina’s crypto scene, quickly turned into a hostage situation.

The couple, aged 30 and 27, were invited to a rented apartment on Ravignani Street under the pretense of continuing a prior conversation from a local bar.

Once inside, the assailants restrained them and demanded $43,000 in cryptocurrency.

Although the attackers fled before authorities arrived, the couple was freed within 24 hours after a third Russian citizen—an acquaintance living in Partido de la Costa—transferred the ransom digitally.

The female victim’s cries for help in English around 11pm. caught the attention of staff at a nearby restaurant, prompting them to call emergency services.

Police discovered the victims tied up in the apartment, though unharmed.

Communication was briefly delayed due to language barriers until a friend assisted with translation, followed by official interpreters recording statements.

Investigators say the suspects—identified as two Chechen men—had been staying at the apartment for two nights and fled shortly after receiving the ransom.

Interpol has issued red notices for their arrest, with reports suggesting they may have fled to the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Authorities believe this attack is part of a growing trend of transnational crypto kidnappings, echoing recent incidents across Europe and North America.

Despite the secrecy still surrounding parts of the case, one thing is clear: as the crypto economy expands, so too does the risk landscape surrounding it.

International Manhunt for Suspects Who Fled to UAE

Shortly after the crime, the suspects swiftly boarded a flight from Ezeiza International Airport to the UAE—escaping Argentina just hours before authorities could identify them.

The Argentine Federal Police (PFA) confirmed the departure, and Interpol has since issued red notices for both men.

The case is now under the jurisdiction of Federal Judge María Romilda Servini and the PFA’s Southern Anti-Kidnapping Department, with international arrest warrants issued and extradition efforts underway.

If captured and returned, the suspects face prison terms of 8 to 15 years.

Investigators believe the victims’ ties to the cryptocurrency industry likely made them targets.

A source close to the investigation said:

“This wasn’t a random act. The attackers likely knew the couple had access to digital assets and used that to their advantage.”

The ransom payment is now being tracked via on-chain analysis, though details remain limited. International law enforcement coordination is ongoing, as officials work to locate and detain the fugitives.

Judge Servini’s involvement adds an intriguing layer—she has presided over several high-profile crypto-related cases, including scrutiny of President Milei and advisory roles in warrants like that of Hayden Davis.

The case unfolds against the backdrop of a global surge in crypto kidnappings, from an Italian millionaire tortured in the US to a series of brutal attacks across France.

While this ransom was relatively modest, the perpetrators’ success raises the risk of future copycat crimes if swift arrests are not made.