Wales: Three men lured Israeli producer Itay Kashti to a remote Wales cottage.
They posed as Polydor Records representatives to trap him.
Swansea Crown Court heard their motives included politics, religion, and money.
Kashti compared the attack to his “own personal October 7th.”
The kidnappers were sentenced to eight years and one month each.
Careful Planning
The men created a detailed kidnap plan.
Their list included masks, gloves, a gag, and rental cars.
They also discussed laundering ransom money with cryptocurrency.
Handcuffs and cable ties were brought to the location.
They planned to drug Kashti with ketamine.
Fake Invitation
On August 14, 2024, Kashti got an email from “Lucas Winslow.”
It invited him to a “music recording camp” in Wales.
Prosecutors described it as a “careful and elaborate” scheme.
The men discussed the plan in detail on Telegram.
Their ultimate goal was to kidnap and extort him.
Trap Set
The kidnappers rented a cottage using stolen details.
A taxi was booked to bring Kashti from London.
Taxi driver Mohammad Amowar was unknowingly involved.
Upon arrival, both victims realized they were in danger.
The kidnappers attacked immediately while wearing masks.
Escape and Arrest
Amowar was hit but managed to escape.
Kashti was beaten, handcuffed to a radiator, and threatened.
He freed himself and ran, still in handcuffs.
He hid in bushes and called his wife, who called police.
The kidnappers fled but were caught that evening.
Legal Consequences
A search uncovered an air pistol and bleach.
One kidnapper tried to arrange an escape while hiding.
Kashti said the attack triggered thoughts of his Jewish ancestors.
His injuries included facial swelling and bruising.
Defense lawyers called the plot “amateurish” and expressed remorse.
Justice Served
The Crown Prosecution Service praised the victims’ bravery.
Officials hope the convictions help them move forward.
Kashti now feels unsafe and struggles with anxiety.
The case highlights the dangers of politically motivated crimes.
Authorities encourage vigilance against similar threats.
