French Police Arrest 12 Suspects in Crypto Kidnapping Investigations
French police arrested at least 12 suspects linked to two crypto-kidnapping incidents in Paris. The Brigade de Répression du Banditisme conducted arrests in the Paris region and Loire-Atlantique, including several minors. Charges include criminal conspiracy, kidnapping, and attempted kidnapping, with ringleaders allegedly recruiting young individuals via social media. The first incident involved the kidnapping of a prominent poker player's father on May 1, with demands for €5 million to €7 million in crypto. The victim was released after suffering a severed finger. The second incident on May 13 involved an attempted abduction of the daughter of Paymium's CEO, thwarted by bystanders. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced increased security measures for cryptocurrency executives. France has seen five physical crypto attacks in 2025, part of a broader trend of organized crime blending cyber capabilities with physical intimidation. Experts recommend minimizing exposure by avoiding public discussions of holdings and using multi-signature wallets and time-delayed withdrawals for added security.
