A computer scientist, Craig Wright, currently engaged in a legal battle with the Crypto Open Patent Alliance (COPA), asserts that Gareth Williams, an MI6 officer found dead in a bag 14 years ago, played a crucial role in creating Bitcoin. The High Court heard that Wright named Williams as a key figure in Bitcoin's development during proceedings in the US. The dispute between Wright and COPA, funded by Twitter founder Jack Dorsey, centers on Wright's claim to be the inventor of Bitcoin.
COPA contends that Wright's allegations about Williams and two other individuals linked to Bitcoin, who have since died, are implausible. It is claimed that Wright also asserted connections with Dave Kleiman and David Rees, both deceased. COPA argues that Wright stated he communicated with Williams in 2011, a year after Williams' death.
Williams, a GCHQ codebreaker, was discovered dead in a padlocked bag in his London flat in 2010. COPA's lawyer referred to Wright's claim as a "brazen lie" and an "elaborate false narrative" supported by extensive forgery. Wright, denying being untruthful, did not mention Williams in his legal defense. COPA contends that Wright has failed to provide credible proof, presenting manipulated documents as evidence.
Wright's barrister countered, stating that there is clear evidence of his client's role in Bitcoin's creation, emphasizing Wright's dedication to studying and working on the underlying concepts for many years. Wright is expected to present his evidence during the trial.