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Roman Novak and Wife Found Dismembered in UAE Desert as Probe Points to Crypto Extortion

Authorities say kidnappers sought access to Novak’s wallets before killing the couple.

Overview

  • Investigators recovered the remains of Roman and Anna Novak in a remote area near the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve weeks after their disappearance.
  • The couple were lured to a meeting near Hatta by people posing as investors and were abducted after transferring to another vehicle, according to reports.
  • Forensic findings cited by Russian and UAE media include Anna’s blood at a rented villa and in a hired car, as well as knives discovered near the crime scene.
  • Officials say the kidnappers demanded access to Novak’s cryptocurrency wallets, which were reportedly empty, and the couple were then killed and dismembered.
  • Russian authorities report multiple detentions in regions including St Petersburg, Stavropol and Krasnodar with extradition expected, as investigators note Novak’s prior fraud conviction and alleged $499–500 million Fintopio scheme.