The Rise of ‘Contract Killings’ as a Service: How Global Feuds are Outsourcing Violence
A botched hit in Birmingham, involving an American woman flown into the UK, isn’t an isolated incident. The conviction of Aimee Betro for conspiracy to murder signals a disturbing trend: the increasing globalization of targeted violence, facilitated by readily available networks and a growing market for ‘contract killings’ as a service. While the dramatic details of this case – a gun jamming, a niqab disguise, years spent on the run in Armenia – are unique, the underlying dynamics point to a future where international disputes are settled not through diplomacy, but through outsourced assassination attempts.
From Local Vendettas to International Plots
The Birmingham case stemmed from a feud between families, a common root cause for many violent crimes. However, the decision to hire someone from the United States to carry out the attack represents a significant escalation. Historically, such disputes remained largely localized. Now, the internet and readily available communication tools allow individuals to bypass geographical limitations and tap into a global pool of potential perpetrators. This isn’t simply about increased opportunity; it’s about a shifting perception of violence as a transactional service.
The Dark Web and the ‘Murder-for-Hire’ Market
While sensationalized in media, the dark web does host marketplaces where individuals can solicit and offer violent services. Research by groups like Europol has documented a steady, albeit fluctuating, demand for ‘hitmen’ online. The reality is often more complex than portrayed – many postings are scams or attempts to entrap potential buyers – but the existence of these platforms demonstrates a willingness to explore such options. The Betro case suggests a more sophisticated approach, bypassing the open dark web in favor of direct recruitment, but the underlying principle remains the same: violence is being commodified.
Extradition and International Law Enforcement Challenges
Betro’s years spent evading capture in Armenia highlight another critical aspect of this trend: the challenges of international law enforcement. The ease with which she was able to disappear and remain undetected for nearly five years underscores the need for improved cross-border collaboration and information sharing. Extradition treaties, while essential, are often complex and time-consuming, allowing perpetrators to exploit loopholes and delay justice. The case also raises questions about the role of countries like Armenia in becoming safe havens for individuals fleeing prosecution.
The Role of Cryptocurrency in Facilitating Payments
The financial transactions involved in these types of plots are increasingly reliant on cryptocurrency. Bitcoin and other digital currencies offer a degree of anonymity that makes it difficult for law enforcement to trace funds and identify those involved. This presents a significant obstacle to investigations and makes it harder to disrupt these networks. Regulators are grappling with how to effectively monitor and control the use of cryptocurrency in illicit activities, but the technology is constantly evolving, creating a perpetual cat-and-mouse game.
Predicting the Future: A Rise in ‘Proxy Violence’?
The Betro case isn’t an anomaly; it’s a harbinger of things to come. We can anticipate a rise in what could be termed ‘proxy violence’ – individuals or groups outsourcing violent acts to third parties in different countries. This trend will be fueled by several factors: increasing global interconnectedness, the proliferation of online marketplaces for illicit services, the anonymity offered by cryptocurrency, and the challenges of international law enforcement. The potential for escalation is significant, as these outsourced attacks could easily spill over into larger conflicts or be used to destabilize regions.
Furthermore, the increasing sophistication of these plots – utilizing disguises, complex travel arrangements, and attempts to evade detection – suggests that perpetrators are learning from past mistakes and adapting their tactics. Law enforcement agencies must proactively address these challenges by strengthening international cooperation, investing in advanced investigative technologies, and developing strategies to disrupt the financial networks that support these activities. What are your predictions for the future of internationally outsourced violence? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
