14 Convicted of Bitcoin Kidnapping, Face Life Sentences in India

A landmark Indian court has sentenced 14 individuals to life imprisonment for their involvement in a sophisticated Bitcoin kidnapping scheme that targeted businessman Shailesh Bhatt. The perpetrators, including a former ruling party lawmaker and a senior police official, extorted 750 Bitcoins from Bhatt in 2018, highlighting the dangers of cybercrime within a rapidly evolving digital landscape. This case is a stark reminder of the increasing sophistication of criminal activity using cryptocurrencies. The investigation revealed how the group conspired to abduct Bhatt and then leverage their positions for financial gain.