London Gang Convicted Kidnapping Belgian Barber Over False Crypto Fortune

Quentin Cepeljac, a Belgian barber known for styling footballers, was kidnapped in London after being lured by a social media acquaintance, Davina Raaymakers, who falsely promised a luxury stay. The gang, believing Cepeljac was a cryptocurrency billionaire, held him captive for nine hours, threatening him with knives and a machete while demanding £500,000 in crypto funds. Upon discovering Cepeljac had only £6.71 in his crypto wallet, they lowered their ransom demands, ultimately extorting £2,000 from his bank account before releasing him. The kidnappers, including Raaymakers and her boyfriend Adlan Haji, pleaded guilty to blackmail and face sentencing. This case highlights the rising threat of "wrench attacks," where perceived crypto wealth leads to violent extortion, underscoring vulnerabilities in trusting online contacts and the importance of caution for crypto traders. International police cooperation was crucial in resolving the case, and it raises concerns about personal security amid growing crypto adoption.