France Charges 25 Individuals, Including Minors, for Crypto Kidnappings
French authorities have charged 25 individuals, including six minors, in connection with a series of cryptocurrency-related kidnappings in Paris. This includes suspects linked to a failed kidnapping attempt involving Pierre Noizat, CEO of crypto exchange Paymium, on May 13.
- The investigation covers multiple kidnapping attempts, including earlier threats against Noizat's family and an thwarted abduction near Nantes.
- Notable past incidents include the kidnapping of a French crypto millionaire's father and David Ballard, a co-founder of crypto-wallet firm Ledger.
- All suspects are aged between 16 and 23; they primarily originate from France, with three from Senegal, Angola, and Russia.
- Suspects are allegedly hired by a Southeast Asian criminal group for around $10,000 per kidnapping.
- Eighteen suspects are in pre-trial detention, while others await hearings or are under judicial supervision.
The rise in crypto kidnappings has prompted discussions among French officials and industry stakeholders about enhancing security measures for crypto professionals.