Dean Skurka was the CEO of blockchain and crypto firm WonderFi. kidnappingHeld for ransom and later released after payment $1 millionAccording to CBC and other sources, Skurka was reportedly abducted in downtown Toronto around 6 p.m. Thursday.
Skurka was later released and found safe in Centennial Park. Police reports indicate that the kidnappers demanded a ransom, which was paid electronically.
Police took immediate action on information about kidnapping
Toronto police immediately responded to a call about a kidnapping incident at Richmond Street W and University Avenue during rush hour. According to some witnesses, Skurka was forced into the vehicle before being subjected to random demands.
A police spokesperson identified the victim as Dean Skurka, CEO and president of WonderFiWonderFi is a Toronto-based company that owns one of the largest crypto exchanges in Canada and invests in blockchain projects.
Toronto police are currently continuing their investigation and have not shared any details about the suspects or other leads in the kidnapping.
WonderFi CEO Dean Skurka. Image: The Logic
Crypto safe for customers and investors: Skurka
In an email to CBC last Thursday, Skurka shared that he was involved in an incident and is now safe. They also assured their customers that their data and funds will remain safe.
Skurka’s kidnapping is the latest in a list of digital currency celebrities to fall victim to robberies. According to one firm, toronto kidnapping The incident was the 171st incident of violence against crypto celebrities.
This latest kidnapping is similar to the Malaysian case last July, where two men were kidnapped and released for $1.2 million in virtual currency.
Last year, ransomware gangs and other hackers extorted more than $1 billion in cryptocurrency payments, a record high. According to Chainalysis, the amount raised has seen a 10% increase from 2021, which suggests that ransomware is now a serious concern for the industry.
WonderFi reports $41 million CAD revenue for 3Q
Skurka’s kidnapping came just a day after his company reported third-quarter earnings. Toronto-based WonderFi has reported $41 million in revenue for its operations over the past nine months. The company’s performance coincides with Bitcoin’s market rally, which is now trading above $76k.
WonderFi is a Toronto-based publicly listed company that invests in and operates blockchain projects and digital assets. Kevin O’Leary, also known as “Mr. Wonderful” from Shark Tank, and who has generally been a crypto supporter, is one of its leading figures.
Just last year, the company shared that it had significant ownership in some regulated crypto exchanges in Canada.
Featured image from Telangana Today, chart from Trading View
