The kidnappers allegedly demanded $1 million to release the executive
Dean Skurka, CEO of Toronto-based crypto firm WonderFi Technologies, reportedly became the target of a high-stakes kidnapping. It ended with his release after a $1 million ransom was allegedly paid.
According to a CBC report yesterday, Skurka was forced into a vehicle in downtown Toronto on the evening of November 6 and later transferred the ransom electronically to secure his freedom. Details of the incident have emerged through a source close to the investigation, while Skurka has confirmed in an email that he experienced an “incident” but assured that WonderFi’s funds and data were not compromised.
Toronto police have launched an investigation, though specific details remain undisclosed. Neither Skurka nor WonderFi has publicly commented further on their social media platforms or official website, leaving many questions surrounding the incident unanswered.
This incident highlights a worrying trend in the cryptocurrency world. Executives and influencers are increasingly targeted by criminals seeking to profit from the considerable funds often associated with the industry.
Several high-profile abductions have been reported globally in recent months. In one recent case, four suspects in Kyiv were arrested in connection with the kidnapping and murder of a foreign crypto investor. Meanwhile, Malaysian nationals were also charged in a separate incident for allegedly abducting a Chinese crypto trader, demanding a $1 million ransom in Tether (USDT).
WonderFi, publicly traded on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the ticker WNDR, is a key player in the Canadian crypto market, boasting significant backing from entrepreneur Kevin O’Leary. The firm oversees numerous crypto ventures, including Coinsquare, SmartPay, Tetra Trust, and the popular exchange Bitbuy, where Skurka previously held a leadership role.
