Mastermind of Crypto Kidnappings Arrested in Morocco

A suspect allegedly behind recent high-profile crypto kidnappings in France has been arrested in Morocco. At the request of French authorities, a joint operation of Morocco’s National Judicial Police Brigade (BNPJ) and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) took the 24-year-old French-Moroccan suspect into custody. The press agency described the man, who was identified by French press as Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, as a mastermind of the crimes.

French Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin expressed gratitude for the arrest, highlighting the excellent judicial cooperation between the two countries, particularly against organized crime. Interpol had issued a "red notice" for Bajjou, seeking him for organized extortion, kidnapping, and violence.

French authorities have already charged more than two dozen people — including six minors — in the spate of crypto kidnappings in Paris. Most of these cases are tied to the May 13 failed kidnapping attempt of the family of Pierre Noizat, the CEO of exchange Paymium. In May, the father of a French crypto millionaire was reportedly kidnapped in a case similar to the earlier seizure of David Ballard, a co-founder of crypto-wallet developer Ledger, and his wife. Kidnappers severed a finger from each of the men.

Following these incidents, France's Minister of the Interior Bruno Retailleau hosted a meeting with people involved in crypto to discuss measures to keep them secure. The arrests and subsequent investigations underscore the growing concern over the security of individuals involved in the crypto industry, highlighting the need for enhanced protective measures and international cooperation to combat such crimes.