The French police have arrested over 20 individuals in connection with a series of kidnapping plots targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and their families. Recent investigations have unveiled alarming incidents, including an abduction attempt in Nantes and a failed kidnapping of a woman and child in Paris earlier this year. These events have sparked serious concerns regarding the safety of those who have amassed wealth through cryptocurrency, making them susceptible to criminals seeking ransom.
According to French media, a total of 24 suspects have been detained following scrutiny of a masked gang's attempt to abduct the daughter and young grandson of Pierre Noizat, a notable figure in the cryptocurrency sector and co-founder of the Paymium Bitcoin exchange. This incident occurred on 13 May in Paris, highlighting the rising threats faced by crypto executives.
Moreover, reports indicate that an impending kidnapping in Nantes was thwarted by police, who acted before the assailants could execute the attack. The troubling trend of kidnappings also includes a case from May 1, when the father of a cryptocurrency millionaire was kidnapped by masked men in Paris. His captors reportedly demanded a ransom ranging from €5 million to €7 million, and he was later found with serious injuries during a police rescue operation.
In a previously reported incident, David Balland, co-founder of the Ledger cryptocurrency firm, and his wife were abducted in January, with the criminals demanding an even steeper ransom of €10 million. Both were later rescued, but Balland suffered grave injuries, similar to other victims.
In response to the growing violence against the cryptocurrency community, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau convened an emergency meeting with industry leaders to discuss enhanced security measures. He assured the public that the government is fully committed to bringing the responsible parties to justice and ensuring the safety of those within the crypto sector.
According to French media, a total of 24 suspects have been detained following scrutiny of a masked gang's attempt to abduct the daughter and young grandson of Pierre Noizat, a notable figure in the cryptocurrency sector and co-founder of the Paymium Bitcoin exchange. This incident occurred on 13 May in Paris, highlighting the rising threats faced by crypto executives.
Moreover, reports indicate that an impending kidnapping in Nantes was thwarted by police, who acted before the assailants could execute the attack. The troubling trend of kidnappings also includes a case from May 1, when the father of a cryptocurrency millionaire was kidnapped by masked men in Paris. His captors reportedly demanded a ransom ranging from €5 million to €7 million, and he was later found with serious injuries during a police rescue operation.
In a previously reported incident, David Balland, co-founder of the Ledger cryptocurrency firm, and his wife were abducted in January, with the criminals demanding an even steeper ransom of €10 million. Both were later rescued, but Balland suffered grave injuries, similar to other victims.
In response to the growing violence against the cryptocurrency community, Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau convened an emergency meeting with industry leaders to discuss enhanced security measures. He assured the public that the government is fully committed to bringing the responsible parties to justice and ensuring the safety of those within the crypto sector.
