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Crypto Forum Moderator Targeted in Alleged Bitcoin Kidnapping Attempt

Canadian crypto forum moderator forced into hiding after a kidnapping attempt over Bitcoin; suspects released, family's safety at risk.
Crypto Forum Moderator Targeted in Alleged Bitcoin Kidnapping Attempt

Highlights

  • Crypto forum moderator targeted for $2.5B in BTC by kidnappers using torture tools.
  • Victim forced to relocate after attackers mistakenly link him to billions in Bitcoin.
  • Police release kidnapping suspects; family of crypto moderator moves to stay safe.

A Canadian crypto forum moderator and father of four claims to have been forced into hiding after an alleged kidnapping and torture attempt. The attackers reportedly targeted him, falsely believing he possessed an immense amount of Bitcoin.

The incident has left the man and his family in a precarious situation as they move from one temporary residence to another, fearing for their safety.

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Crypto Forum Moderator Targeted in Bitcoin Kidnapping

The alleged incident, which took place in November 2024, started when two masked people allegedly got close to the Crypto forum’s house. As per the statement, the suspects escaped from the scene after the man closed the door on them. A few days later, the victim saw the masked men in an unmarked vehicle near his house while he was taking his child to daycare.

The suspects are said to have followed the man onto a main road. When the situation worsened, he was on the phone with the police when the suspect vehicle turned and three of its occupants escaped on foot. 

Shortly after, the driver of the vehicle reportedly came out and confronted the victim, and another suspect brandished a firearm. The man stated that he used bear spray as a way of protecting himself from the suspects until the police came in to arrest the duo.

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Claims of Torture Equipment Discovered

In the report, the Crypto forum moderator stated that the suspects intended to kidnap and torture him in order to get his cryptocurrency. 

The police investigations suggested that the attackers thought he had 2.5 million Bitcoins worth billions of dollars because he was a moderator of a cryptocurrency Facebook group.

‘The guys had equipment to torture me,’ the man said to La Presse. They had a tarp with a hole in the middle and claws to cut off a limb and stop the bleeding. It’s incredibly violent.” The victim claimed that his actual BTC investment was $10,000 which is like 0.1 of a Bitcoin as per current price.

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Suspects Released on House Arrest

Four suspects, two of which are adults and two are juveniles, were taken into custody in relation to the event. The adults are to be charged with conspiracy to kidnap and use of prohibited firearms. However, all these four suspects were released on house arrest to await their trial that is set to commence in March.

The release of the suspects has been a matter of concern to the family of the Crypto forum moderator since there is a possibility of their attack. The family was told by the authorities that they should move away from the area saying that the suspects could be linked to organised crime. The family has since been transferring from one short term lease house to another in an effort to flee any danger.

A representative of Quebec’s provincial police, Sûreté du Québec stated that although the police offer guidance to victims, they cannot offer round the clock protection.

”We do not advise people to change their address but it is one of the measures we are considering, the other ones are to change the locks or to install cameras and alarms,” the spokesperson said.

Despite this, the victim has expressed frustration over the suspects’ release, stating it has forced his family into hiding. “The police told us they can’t ensure our safety,” he said, adding that his family has been burning through their savings to stay safe. The man also revealed that the Youth Protection Department (DPJ) became involved after rumors of the incident spread at his children’s school.

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Kelvin Munene Murithi

Kelvin Munene is a crypto and finance journalist with over 5 years of experience, offering in-depth market analysis and expert commentary . With a Bachelor's degree in Journalism and Actuarial Science from Mount Kenya University, Kelvin is known for his meticulous research and strong writing skills, particularly in cryptocurrency, blockchain, and financial markets. His work has been featured across top industry publications such as Coingape, Cryptobasic, MetaNews, Cryptotimes, Coinedition, TheCoinrepublic, Cryptotale, and Analytics Insight among others, where he consistently provides timely updates and insightful content. Kelvin’s focus lies in uncovering emerging trends in the crypto space, delivering factual and data-driven analyses that help readers make informed decisions. His expertise extends across market cycles, technological innovations, and regulatory shifts that shape the crypto landscape. Beyond his professional achievements, Kelvin has a passion for chess, traveling, and exploring new adventures.

Why trust CoinGape: CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights to our readers. Our journalists and analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.
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