Ukrainian prosecutors have concluded an investigation into a criminal gang led by two former police colonels, accused of extorting over $2.2 million from cryptocurrency professionals. The gang, comprising four ex-police officers and a civilian, allegedly used their law enforcement experience and resources to kidnap and extort funds from at least four victims in the crypto industry. One victim was forced to sign a fraudulent $5 million debt agreement under duress. The gang was dismantled in November 2025, and the case is now proceeding to trial. The rise in cryptocurrency-related "wrench attacks" is highlighted by data from CertiK, which recorded 72 extortion cases globally in 2025, marking a 75% increase from the previous year. Total losses from these incidents exceeded $40.9 million. France has also reported 135 violent crypto-related incidents since 2023, with 88 suspects charged as of April 2026.