UK crypto robbers beat man and threatened to kill his pregnant wife's baby

Three masked intruders in Solihull beat a man with hammers and threatened to kill his seven-months-pregnant wife unless he transferred hundreds of thousands of pounds in crypto. Chainalysis says $30m was stolen in such 'wrench attacks' in the first half of 2026, making it likely the worst year on record.

• Attackers followed instructions from an accomplice on a live video call who saw the victim's wallet
• Crypto savings worth hundreds of thousands of pounds were transferred; Rolex watches were also stolen
• Chainalysis: $30m stolen in violent crypto robberies in the first half of 2026
• Crimestoppers offers a £10,000 reward; police have not identified the attackers