Individual Linked to Crypto Kidnappings in France Captured in Morocco

A suspect allegedly involved in recent high-profile crypto kidnappings in France has been arrested in Morocco, according to Maghreb Arab Press, a government-run press agency. At the request of French authorities, a joint operation by Morocco’s National Judicial Police Brigade (BNPJ) and the General Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) apprehended the 24-year-old French-Moroccan suspect. The man, identified by French media as Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, is described as a mastermind behind the crimes.

“I sincerely thank Morocco for this arrest, which demonstrates the excellent judicial cooperation between our two countries, particularly against organized crime,” stated French Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin in a translated remark shared on social media.

Interpol has issued a “red notice” for Bajjou, who is sought for organized extortion, kidnapping, and violence. In connection with a series of crypto kidnappings in Paris, French authorities have charged more than two dozen individuals, including six minors. Many of these cases are linked to the attempted kidnapping of Pierre Noizat, the CEO of the exchange Paymium, on May 13.

Additionally, in May, the father of a French crypto millionaire was reportedly kidnapped in a case reminiscent of the earlier abduction of David Ballard, a co-founder of crypto-wallet developer Ledger, and his wife, during which kidnappers mutilated both men.

In light of these recent incidents, France’s Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, convened a meeting with members of the crypto community to discuss measures aimed at enhancing their security.