Once again, crypto-related turmoil unfolds as a Russian couple is saved from a kidnapping in Buenos Aires, connected to a digital ransom—an incident that has triggered an international search for the perpetrators.
Russian Couple Abducted Over Crypto—Suspects Escape to UAE After Ransom
Authorities in Buenos Aires rescued a Russian couple after kidnappers allegedly abducted them and released them following a $43,000 cryptocurrency ransom payment. The couple, who run a crypto business, had accepted a dinner invitation from two Chechen men living on the first floor of a Palermo apartment. These men later abducted the couple. Judge María Romilda Servini and Argentina’s Federal Police Southern Anti-Kidnapping Division are leading the case. Authorities have launched an international search as the suspects left the country just hours after the crime.
The incident took place at an apartment located at Ravignani 1596, where the suspects had been staying temporarily. The two Chechens rented the unit for the two nights before the incident. Investigators believe the Russian couple was lured to the property and then restrained inside.
At approximately 11 p.m. on Friday, the female victim managed to call for help in English from a balcony, drawing the attention of nearby restaurant staff. Law enforcement responded promptly and discovered both victims tied up. A friend of the couple—another Russian living in the coastal region of Buenos Aires province—paid the ransom in cryptocurrency after briefly exchanging messages with the kidnappers, according to authorities.
The use of cryptocurrency in the ransom transaction has sparked intense scrutiny, raising concerns about its role in criminal activity and law enforcement’s ability to investigate such cases. Authorities tracked the suspects as they boarded a flight at Ezeiza International Airport, headed to the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Interpol has since listed both individuals as fugitives.
Critics argue that the pseudonymous nature of cryptocurrencies enables extortion and illegal activities. However, industry proponents highlight that public blockchain transactions are trackable and frequently help law enforcement. Blockchain analytics companies consistently assist authorities in tracing illicit funds, directly challenging the idea that crypto inherently promotes criminal behavior.
Crypto exchange Binance recently issued a critical alert in response to a rise in physical attacks linked to cryptocurrencies, which have surged with Bitcoin’s value. The platform highlighted 15 kidnapping cases reported in 2025 and outlined a five-step safety strategy. Binance advises users to stay discreet, protect their wallets, limit online exposure, and prepare for emergencies.
