Dismembered Bodies of Crypto Millionaire and Wife Found in Dubai Desert
Roman Novak, a 38-year-old Russian crypto multi-millionaire, and his wife Anna were found dismembered and buried in a desert in the United Arab Emirates after disappearing a month ago.
Disappearance and Investigation
The couple was last seen driving to meet unidentified investors near a lake in Dubai’s mountain resort of Hatta. Reports later indicated they were kidnapped, with kidnappers demanding a large ransom, which was not paid.
Their bodies were discovered nearly a month after their disappearance. Concerned relatives in Russia alerted local authorities, leading to the detention of three suspects in St Petersburg, Stavropol, and Krasnodar regions.
Suspects and Legal Proceedings
- Konstantin Shakht, a former police officer
- Yury Sharypov
- Vladimir Dalekin
All suspects have been held in custody until December 28.
Background and Motive
Roman and Anna Novak highlighted their wealthy lifestyle on social media, showcasing fast cars and private jets in Dubai. Reports suggest they were extorted for cryptocurrency.
They had notable contacts, including Pavel Durov, billionaire owner of the Telegram social media platform.
"The investigation has established that the killers had accomplices who helped organise the abduction." – Svetlana Petrenko, Russian Investigative Committee
The case remains under investigation with authorities seeking further evidence related to the accomplices.
Author’s Summary
This tragic case reveals the dark side of crypto wealth, where a high-profile couple fell victim to a violent ransom scheme in the UAE desert.