Dismembered Bodies of Crypto Millionaire and Wife Found in Dubai Desert
Roman Novak, 38, a crypto multi-millionaire, and his wife Anna were found dismembered and buried in a desert in the United Arab Emirates after disappearing a month earlier.
Disappearance and Kidnapping
The couple was last seen near a lake in Dubai’s mountain resort of Hatta, reportedly heading to meet “unidentified investors.” They were later kidnapped, and a large ransom demand followed but was not paid.
Investigation and Arrests
Russian relatives alerted local authorities, leading to the discovery of the bodies and the detention of three suspects in Russia:
- Konstantin Shakht, a former police officer
- Yury Sharypov
- Vladimir Dalekin
The suspects have been held in custody until December 28.
Background and Motive
Roman and Anna Novak frequently showcased their luxurious lifestyle—fast cars and private jets in Dubai—on social media. According to law enforcement sources, they were extorted for cryptocurrency.
The couple had wealthy contacts, including Pavel Durov, billionaire owner of the Telegram social media platform.
Svetlana Petrenko of the Russian Investigative Committee said: “The investigation has established that the killers had accomplices who helped organise the abduction.”
Author’s summary: The tragic abduction and murder of Roman and Anna Novak highlight the dark risks faced by crypto millionaires, even amid wealth and influence.