Key Suspect in French Crypto Kidnappings Arrested in Morocco

A French-Moroccan suspect linked to a series of high-profile crypto-related kidnappings in France has been arrested in Morocco, according to the state-run Maghreb Arab Press (MAP). The 24-year-old, identified by French media as Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, was detained following a joint operation between Morocco’s National Judicial Police Brigade (BNPJ) and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST), at the request of French authorities.

Bajjou is accused of orchestrating several violent crimes, including kidnapping, extortion, and physical assault. Interpol had issued a red notice for his arrest. His alleged involvement includes the failed May 13 kidnapping of Pierre Noizat’s family—Noizat is the CEO of French crypto exchange Paymium—and a string of similar attacks targeting crypto-affiliated individuals.

More than 20 individuals, including six minors, have already been charged in connection with the kidnapping spree in Paris. In another disturbing case, the father of a French crypto millionaire was abducted, echoing the earlier kidnapping of David Ballard, co-founder of Ledger, and his wife. In both instances, victims were severely mutilated, with attackers reportedly severing fingers to force access to crypto wallets.

France's Minister of Justice, Gérald Darmanin, praised Moroccan authorities for their cooperation, emphasizing the importance of cross-border efforts in tackling organized crypto crime. In response to the growing threat, France's Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, recently met with crypto industry stakeholders to discuss enhanced security measures.

The arrest marks a major breakthrough in France’s ongoing effort to crack down on criminal networks targeting crypto entrepreneurs and investors, as the industry grapples with increasing physical risks alongside digital threats.