In a significant crackdown, French authorities have detained 24 suspects linked to several kidnapping plots targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and their families. The initiative comes amidst rising fears regarding the safety of those holding substantial crypto fortunes.
Surge in Kidnappings Targeting Cryptocurrency Entrepreneurs Sparks Panic in France
Surge in Kidnappings Targeting Cryptocurrency Entrepreneurs Sparks Panic in France
Over 20 arrests have been made in France following a series of kidnapping attempts aimed at individuals involved in cryptocurrency, raising alarming concerns over safety in the sector.
French police have apprehended over 20 individuals in connection with a disturbing string of kidnapping attempts involving cryptocurrency industry leaders and their families. The investigations spotlight recent abduction attempts, including a notable case in Nantes and an incident in Paris where a woman and her child were targeted in May. These alarming events underscore the growing risk for affluent individuals within the cryptocurrency sector, who are becoming sought-after targets for criminal syndicates eager for ransom payouts.
Reports confirm that 24 suspects have been detained following extensive inquiries. One key incident involved an unsuccessful attempt by a masked gang to kidnap the daughter and young grandson of Pierre Noizat, co-founder of French Bitcoin exchange platform Paymium, on May 13. Furthermore, law enforcement foiled a kidnapping plot against another cryptocurrency affiliate in Nantes shortly after, enhancing concerns over the safety of crypto professionals and their families.
The trend of kidnapping for ransom has escalated dramatically, with several cases surfacing across the nation in recent months. In one shocking incident on May 1, a cryptocurrency millionaire’s father was abducted and held captive, with demands for a ransom ranging between €5-7 million. Tragically, rescuers reported he had sustained severe injuries, including the loss of a finger.
The frequency of these violent acts is reminiscent of the January kidnapping of David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, who, along with his wife, was abducted from their home. Criminals had sought a hefty ransom of €10 million in that case as well. Following that incident, authorities arrested six men and a woman purportedly involved.
In response to this unsettling trend, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau convened an emergency meeting with representatives from the cryptocurrency sector in mid-May, pledging comprehensive state support for tracking down and neutralizing the perpetrators of these heinous acts against individuals in the cryptocurrency world.
