‘Kidnapped’ Chinese student Ye Jingwang found on Central Coast
A Chinese student allegedly kidnapped in Sydney nearly two weeks ago and held for a $1.27 million bitcoin ransom has been found “safe and well” on the Central Coast.
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A Chinese student allegedly kidnapped in Sydney nearly two weeks ago and held for a $1.27 million bitcoin ransom has been found “safe and well” by NSW Police at Mooney Mooney.
News.com.au reports Ye Jingwang, 20, was last seen leaving a Hurstville unit on Friday, August 23.
According to reports in Chinese media, his father was sent a video the following day showing the student blindfolded and with a bloodied face.
The alleged kidnappers warned he would have an “accident” if they were not paid 80 bitcoin ($1.27 million).
Two days later, they sent another video featuring Mr Jingwang begging his father to rescue him, the Shanghai.ist website reported.
According to the Chinese-language Southern Metropolis Daily, Mr Jingwang’s family arrived in Australia over the weekend.
NSW Police could not confirm whether any ransom was paid.
“A man has been located safe and well following his disappearance and suspected abduction last month,” a spokeswoman said in a statement.
“The 20-year-old man was last seen leaving a unit on Woids Ave, Hurstville, about 10am on Friday, August 23.
“Following information received by the man’s family, a concern for his welfare was raised with police the next day.”
Robbery and Serious Crime Squad detectives established Strike Force Galleghan to investigate the incident.
“Following extensive investigations, the man was located by police at Mooney Mooney on the state’s Central Coast about 5.30pm on Sunday, 1 September,” the spokeswoman said.
“He has since been reunited with his family. No arrests or charges have been laid at this stage and investigations are continuing. No further information is available.”