Society Editor
By Tolu Adesuwa Igiehon
A popular Russian influencer couple, known for flaunting their lavish lifestyle online, has been found brutally murdered in the United Arab Emirates after being reported missing in early October. The victims, identified as Roman Novak and his wife Anna, were discovered dismembered and dumped in a desert near the city of Fujairah, days after their disappearance. The couple, who frequently showcased their wealth and luxury travels on social media, leave behind two young children. According to reports from The Moscow Times, the pair was allegedly kidnapped and killed by a criminal gang after being held for ransom. Novak and Anna were last seen on October 2, when their driver dropped them off near a lake in the Hatta area, close to the Oman border, for what was described as a business meeting with potential investors. The driver said they were transferred into another vehicle — and he never saw them again. Further investigations by Russian outlet Fontanka revealed that the couple had been lured to a villa under the guise of an investment meeting. Upon arrival, they were attacked and killed after refusing to provide access to their cryptocurrency wallets. Their mutilated bodies were reportedly found the following day, on October 3, buried in the desert. Authorities from both Russia and the UAE have since launched a joint investigation into the gruesome killings. Seven suspects, including some Russian nationals, have already been detained in connection with the crime. Roman Novak, a former crypto trader and businessman, had previously been convicted of fraud in 2020 and sentenced to six years in prison for defrauding investors across Russia, China, and the Middle East. He was released in 2023 and later relocated to Dubai, where he resumed business activities. In a heartfelt post shared on May 25 — just months before the tragedy — Novak had celebrated his 17th anniversary with Anna, describing her as “the plot twist I never deserved.” He also frequently posted about his family, calling them “the greatest power” in his life. Their sudden and violent deaths have sparked shock and outrage online, with many expressing disbelief that such a brutal act could occur in the UAE, a country known for its strict security and low crime rate. As investigations continue, both nations have vowed to ensure that those responsible for the horrific murders are brought to justice.
