Crypto kidnappings in France: 25 suspects, including teenagers, arrested!

Crypto kidnappings in France: 25 suspects, including teenagers, arrested!

In France, the judiciary has charged 25 suspects, including six minors, with kidnappings and attempted kidnappings related to cryptocurrencies. These incidents occurred in Paris and other parts of the country and are part of a worrying trend in which perpetrators are increasingly targeting relatives of Bitcoin investors. The age range of the suspects ranges from 16 to 23 years old and the investigation shows extensive criminal activity related to the crypto industry.

A particularly salient incident occurred on May 13, when the daughter and grandson of the CEO of crypto firm Paymium were attacked by four masked men in the 11th arrondissement of Paris. The victims suffered minor injuries and had to be taken to hospital. Loud ZDF There has been an increase in attacks on crypto entrepreneurs and their families in recent months. For example, at the end of January, David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, was kidnapped in an incident in which a ransom demand of 10 million euros in Bitcoin was made.

Investigations and arrests

The investigation has also uncovered failed kidnapping plots, including a botched attempt a day before the attack on Paymium's relatives and a foiled operation near Nantes. Thanks to the measures taken, more than 20 suspects were arrested. The suspects come mainly from the Paris region, but also from Châtellerault, as well as from Senegal, Angola and Russia. French authorities have taken crime in the crypto sector seriously and promised increased cooperation between law enforcement and industry representatives to take measures to protect those affected.

The Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, has underlined this side of the fight against crime and encouraged the industry to take more security precautions. Especially given the transparency that crypto transactions bring, the risk of becoming a target for criminals becomes higher. In addition, crypto entrepreneurs have reported an increasing demand for security support to better protect themselves and their families from possible attacks.

Young perpetrators, great danger

According to the public prosecutor's office, the suspected perpetrators are primarily young people who are lured by the prospect of quick money. This was also highlighted by a defense attorney for an 18-year-old suspect, who emphasized the inexperience and naivety of the young people involved. It is alarming that despite these arrests and the identification of a few instigators, many of them are described merely as “underlings” or “logistical” figures.

In summary, the ongoing kidnappings in the crypto sector not only pose a challenge for security authorities but also put the entire industry in a precarious position. The creation of effective protective measures and increased cooperation between authorities and companies are therefore essential to ensure the safety of crypto investors and their relatives.