Tim Heath, a prominent Australian crypto billionaire and founder of Yolo Group, narrowly escaped a violent kidnapping attempt in Estonia by biting off part of a kidnapper’s finger, according to recent courtroom revelations.
Brutal Ambush Thwarted in Seconds
The incident took place in July 2024, when two men disguised as painters ambushed Heath in the stairwell of his Tallinn apartment building. Heath, worth an estimated $1.61 billion AUD, was reportedly targeted for his cryptocurrency holdings.
During the 30-second struggle, one attacker — later identified as Allahverdi Allahverdiyev, an Azerbaijani national and former boxer — attempted to silence Heath by covering his mouth. In response, Heath bit through the assailant’s index finger, allowing him to break free and retreat to his apartment.
Heath lost a tooth, but his quick thinking helped thwart the attempted abduction.
Plot Months in the Making
Estonian prosecutors revealed that the kidnapping plot involved at least seven individuals, some of whom entered the country using forged Georgian passports. The attackers used GPS tracking devices to stalk Heath’s movements and purchased painters’ uniforms to disguise themselves.
Their plan was to transport Heath to a rented sauna house, where they intended to coerce him into transferring crypto funds. A hacker was reportedly enlisted to facilitate the theft.
Aftermath and Ongoing Threats
The attackers fled the scene, abandoning their getaway van. A severed finger was later discovered 100 meters from the crime scene.
Since the attack, Heath has reportedly spent over $3.1 million on personal security and moved to a new residence. Prosecutors claim that weeks later, Heath received a Telegram message containing photos of his apartment and a demand for 30 Bitcoin — roughly $3.3 million USD at the time.
Though no further contact was made, authorities believe the threat remains active.
Legal Proceedings Underway
Two suspects — Allahverdiyev and Georgian citizen Ilgar Mamedov — are currently on trial in Estonia. Allahverdiyev admitted he was promised €100,000 for the kidnapping but claims he later advised the group to abort the mission. Mamedov, accused of being the getaway driver, denies involvement, calling the charges “a fabrication.”
Three members of the gang remain unidentified, and two others, including the alleged mastermind Najaf Najafli, are still wanted by authorities.
Key Takeaways:
- Tim Heath fought off attackers by biting off a kidnapper’s finger.
- The plot involved forged passports, GPS tracking, and a planned crypto theft.
- Heath has since invested millions in private security, with a potential ongoing threat still under investigation.
- Legal proceedings continue as multiple suspects face trial in Estonia.
Disclaimer
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or legal advice. Cryptocurrency trading involves risk and may result in financial loss.