In a disturbing development on Monos Island, renowned former powerboat racer Derek ‘Stones’ Tardieu, 70, and his wife Clarabelle have been violently abducted from their residence. The couple was forcibly taken by armed kidnappers who subsequently contacted family members demanding a substantial ransom payment of $2.5 million for their safe release.
According to investigative sources, the home invasion occurred while the Tardieus were present at their property. The assailants thoroughly ransacked the premises before departing with the elderly couple. Particularly concerning is Tardieu’s critical medical condition—the former athlete suffers from severe heart complications and a brain tumor requiring continuous medication, raising urgent concerns about his wellbeing in captivity.
The kidnappers have provided chilling proof of life through a video recording showing Tardieu with a firearm pressed against his head while another individual brandishes a grenade. Initial contact was established around 9:44 AM when relatives received a voice message from an unrecognized number containing Tardieu’s apparent statement: ‘They have me and want US$2.5 million for my release.’
The couple’s son, Phillip Tardieu, discovered the ransacked home after being alerted to the situation and found both parents missing. Subsequent attempts to reach his father via mobile phone proved unsuccessful. Law enforcement authorities and family representatives are urgently requesting public assistance, asking anyone with relevant information to immediately contact emergency numbers 555, 999, or the nearest police station.