India has delivered a significant legal ruling, sentencing a former Member of Parliament and multiple police officers to life imprisonment for the kidnapping and extortion of a cryptocurrency investor. This landmark verdict by a specialized anti-corruption court reinforces the nation’s commitment to combating digital asset-related crimes, particularly those involving the abuse of public office and systemic corruption.
- A former Member of Parliament and multiple police officers received life sentences for their involvement.
- The case centered on the kidnapping and extortion of cryptocurrency investor Shailesh Bhatt.
- Bhatt was targeted for funds recovered from the defunct BitConnect scheme in 2018.
- Perpetrators demanded over 750 Bitcoin (BTC) and significant cash during the abduction.
- An extensive investigation initiated by Bhatt’s complaint led to 15 arrests and testimony from 173 witnesses.
- Fourteen individuals, including eleven police officers, were ultimately found guilty of kidnapping, assault, and corruption charges.
The Extortion Plot Unveiled
The intricate plot originated around businessman Shailesh Bhatt from Surat, who, in 2018, successfully recovered funds from the now-defunct BitConnect scheme. Knowledge of this recovery reached former MP Nalin Kotadiya and several senior police officials, including Amreli District Chief Jagdish Patel. These individuals conspired to extort Bhatt for a substantial sum, exceeding 750 Bitcoin (BTC).
On February 11, 2018, Bhatt was abducted and transported to a secluded farm near Gandhinagar. The operation was orchestrated by Amreli Crime Branch Inspector Anant Patel and several other police personnel. During his captivity, Bhatt endured physical abuse and was coerced into confessing to possessing 752 BTC. This confession led to demands for a portion of his cryptocurrency holdings and $3.6 million in cash. When the initial cash transaction failed, the perpetrators forced Bhatt to sell 34 BTC and extorted an additional $150,000.
Investigation and Judgment
Bhatt’s formal complaint to the Ministry of Internal Affairs of India triggered an extensive investigation. This meticulous inquiry resulted in 15 arrests and involved gathering testimony from 173 witnesses. On August 29, 2025, the specialized anti-corruption court delivered its judgment, finding 14 individuals guilty. Among those convicted were eleven police officers, who were found responsible for kidnapping, assault, and violating the Prevention of Corruption Act. The court’s judgment also mandated the confiscation of gold jewelry previously seized from Patel. Authorities have unequivocally affirmed that this ruling underscores India’s resolute stance against sophisticated cryptocurrency-related crimes, particularly those perpetrated by state actors.
Blockchain developer and writer, Daniel combines hands-on coding experience with accessible storytelling. He holds multiple blockchain certifications and authors technical explainers, protocol deep-dives, and developer tutorials to help readers navigate the intersection of code and finance.