According to ShibDaily, Thai authorities have arrested four foreign nationals in connection with a cryptocurrency robbery in Phuket. The suspects, identified as Armenian national Arman, 21; Ukrainian nationals Alfred, 18, and Ruslan, 22; and Russian national Mraz, 21, were apprehended at a hotel in Phang Nga Province on November 11. The arrests were made by Phuket’s Kamala Police with the assistance of the Tourist Police, following a warrant issued by the Phuket Provincial Court. The charges include armed robbery, unlawful detention, and coercion.
The incident occurred on November 8 when a 23-year-old Ukrainian tourist named Viacheslav was allegedly lured to a meeting by his friend Alfred. Upon arrival, Viacheslav was ambushed by two masked men who attacked him, restrained him with ropes and cable ties, and threatened to break his fingers unless he transferred $500,000 in cryptocurrency. After negotiations, the demand was reduced to $250,000. Following the transfer, the suspects tied Viacheslav to a bed and fled with additional belongings, warning him not to report the incident. Viacheslav managed to escape, gathered photographic evidence from the hotel reception, and reported the crime to the police.
The suspects are currently in custody at the Kamala Police Station, facing multiple charges. Thai authorities are continuing their investigation and have emphasized their commitment to protecting tourists and ensuring that those involved in organized crime face strict penalties. This case mirrors a similar incident involving Dean Skurka, CEO of WonderFi Technologies, who was kidnapped in Toronto and held for a $1 million ransom. These incidents underscore the increasing security threats faced by high-profile individuals in the cryptocurrency industry, where significant digital wealth can make them targets for organized crime.