Six Arrested in French Crypto Kidnapping Case Involving Magistrate

French authorities have apprehended six suspects in a high-profile kidnapping case that underscores the intersection of cryptocurrency and violent crime. A 35-year-old magistrate, employed in a senior role at a digital-asset company, and her 67-year-old mother were abducted from their home in southeastern France. The captors demanded ransom payments in cryptocurrency, accompanied by threats of harm if their demands were unmet.

The victims were held in a garage for approximately 30 hours before managing to alert a neighbor, leading to their escape before any ransom was paid. French police mobilized 160 officers in a rapid response, conducting coordinated raids across the region. Several suspects were captured attempting to flee toward Spain.

No cryptocurrency was transferred to the kidnappers. Both women sustained injuries but were rescued alive and received immediate medical attention. Prosecutors are preparing formal charges as the investigation continues.