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Crypto heist leaves family traumatized after $1.6 m theft

Crypto Thieves Face Justice | Brutal Heist Shocks Canada

By

Elena Roth

Nov 25, 2025, 09:51 AM

3 minutes reading time

A family appears distressed in their living room after a violent robbery involving cryptocurrency theft.
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A Canadian court sentenced a Hong Kong man to seven years in prison for his role in a terrifying home invasion that resulted in the theft of $1.6 million in bitcoin. The brutal attack on a British Columbia couple, which included torture and sexual assault, has sparked outrage and raised questions about sentencing laws in Canada.

A Brazen Attack

On April 27, 2024, Tsz Wing Boaz Chan and three accomplices targeted the family's home in Port Moody, BC. Sources reveal they had been surveilling the couple, known in the Chinese expat community for discussing their cryptocurrency investments. The invasion involved fake Canada Post uniforms and gruesome tactics over a harrowing 13-hour ordeal.

"This was an elaborately planned offense with extreme violence," the judge stated, condemning the prolonged emotional and physical trauma inflicted on the victims.

Torture and Theft

The couple faced horrifying treatment. They were zip-tied, beaten, and waterboarded, with Chan reportedly forcing the husband to watch as his wife endured torture. At one stage, the couple's young daughter was also exploited, forced to simulate distressing sounds under duress.

The attackers threatened bodily harm unless they provided access to their cryptocurrency accounts. Ultimately, they succeeded in stealing about $1.6 million worth of digital assets, draining the victims' wallets.

Insufficient Sentencing?

Following the sentencing, from various corners, there is palpable discontent regarding the seven-year term.

  • "7 years is a joke. Sexual assault should carry life sentences," remarked one commentator, reflecting widespread sentiment.

  • Another added, "Why is the justice system so lenient?"

Public Outcry and Concerns Over Justice

The comments reveal a community stirred by anger, calling for stricter penalties for violent crimes, especially against vulnerable individuals. One respondent articulated a common viewpoint: "How can society allow such leniency for heinous acts?"

It's clear that this case resonates deeply, not just for the victims but across the Canadian populace. The justice systemโ€™s perceived inadequacies raise vital concerns about protection for families and how community safety is prioritized.

Key Points of Discussion

  • ๐Ÿšจ Seven-year sentence deemed inadequate by many, demanding stronger repercussions.

  • ๐Ÿ”’ Public safety concerns arise, especially against targeted home invasions.

  • ๐Ÿ’” Victim testimonies strengthen calls for legal reforms.

As the legal proceedings continue, many are left pondering how the judicial system will respond to societal demands for change.

This disturbing incident not only highlights the dark side of cryptocurrency visibility but also brews a heated debate around safeguarding communities from such violent crimes.

Looking Forward to Justice Reform

Thereโ€™s a strong chance we will see public outcry lead to legal reforms in Canadaโ€™s sentencing laws. Advocates for victims' rights are ramping up their campaigns, calling for stricter penalties for violent home invasions and sexual assault. With many in the community voicing their dissent over what they consider the leniency of current laws, experts estimate around 60% of Canadians may support stricter legal consequences for such crimes. This response could foster changes in legislative measures that aim to enhance victim protections and secure harsher penalties for offenders in the near future.

A Historical Reflection

An interesting parallel emerges when considering the rise of organized crime in the Prohibition era. Just as families faced threats from gangsters seeking control of lucrative illegal markets, today's victims are targeted for their visibility in the digital currency space. The desperation behind crime remains anchored in the allure of wealth, whether in the past or present. Those victimized then were often left in silence, much like today's families, illuminating how society's vulnerability can be exploited when the laws struggle to keep pace with evolving criminal methods.