Bali Police investigate kidnapping and crypto theft targeting Russian national in South Kuta

Bali Regional Police are investigating the alleged kidnapping, assault, and violent theft of a Russian citizen, identified by the initials AI, in the South Kuta area of Badung District. The victim reported being held captive and abused for nearly 30 hours after being forced into a black Nissan Serena by two masked perpetrators on July 2. The violence, including intimidation, beating, and kicking, was reportedly used to force the victim to provide a password for a crypto asset account. The perpetrators also stole the victim's Xiaomi cellphone and another phone from Villa Ukulele, accessed using a key found on the victim's motorcycle. The victim was released early on July 4 in front of Udayana University Hospital in Jimbaran and received medical treatment. The Bali Regional Police have upgraded the case to a criminal investigation, questioning witnesses, conducting crime scene investigations at four locations, and collecting CCTV footage and cell phone data to identify and apprehend the perpetrators. Police are also assessing the victim's cryptocurrency losses.