A 24-year-old man suspected of masterminding a series of high-profile cryptocurrency kidnappings in France has been arrested in Morocco.
International Cooperation Leads to Arrest
Moroccan authorities apprehended Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, a Franco-Moroccan national, following an Interpol red notice issued by France. The arrest, which took place in Tangier, was praised by French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin as a testament to strong judicial cooperation between the two countries in combating organized crime.
Targeting Crypto Entrepreneurs
French authorities believe Bajjou orchestrated several kidnappings and attempted abductions of crypto investors and their families. These incidents have rocked France in recent months.
High-Profile Cases
The suspect is allegedly linked to several notable cases, including:
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The January Kidnapping of David Balland: The co-founder of Ledger, a French crypto firm, and his wife were kidnapped. Balland suffered a severed finger during the ordeal, which involved a ransom demand. He was later rescued.
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May Kidnapping Attempts: Bajjou is also under investigation for his possible role in several May kidnapping attempts, including a widely-shared social media video showing masked men trying to abduct the pregnant daughter of crypto entrepreneur Pierre Noizat. The attempted abduction was thwarted.
The investigation is ongoing.
