Date: 29.10.2024

by Adam Dworak

Yolo Group Founder Targeted in Foiled Kidnapping Plot in Estonia

An attempted kidnapping targeting Australian businessman and online gambling investor, Heath, was thwarted on July 29 in Tallinn, Estonia. The suspects, disguised as painters, allegedly planned to abduct Heath and transport him to a remote location.

Disguised Intruders and an Elaborate Plan

According to the Estonian newspaper Eesti Ekspress, the attackers reportedly posed as painters to gain access to Heath’s apartment building.

They allegedly waited by the stairwell, intending to force him into a rented van and transport him to an Airbnb located in Voose, roughly an hour from Tallinn.

The scheme, however, was interrupted, leading the suspects to flee on foot, leaving behind key evidence in their rented vehicle.

Evidence Found and Arrest Made

Estonian police tracked the suspects using security camera footage and details from a hired Bolt vehicle.

Law enforcement later apprehended one suspect, Ilgar Mamedov, a Georgian national, in Lithuania before extraditing him to Estonia for prosecution.

Despite Mamedov’s capture, authorities are still investigating the total number of individuals involved and the motives behind the plot.

Yolo Group’s Response

Heath, known for his ventures in online gambling and crypto betting, is the founder of Yolo Group.

The company confirmed that the incident is unrelated to its operations. “The event in question is a personal matter and Yolo Group’s business operations remain entirely unaffected. The founder has no involvement in day-to-day company operations,” stated a company representative.

Ongoing Investigation and Victim’s Security

Estonian prosecutor Lauri Jõgi emphasized the focus on Heath’s safety as the investigation unfolds, stating, “For us now, it’s important to look after the victim and his safety while we’re still determining what happened.”

Estonian authorities continue to explore the extent of the conspiracy, while ensuring the security of the targeted businessman.