France Intensifies Crackdown on Crypto Kidnapping Ring with New Arrests

French authorities have made fresh arrests in a widening investigation into a violent kidnapping network targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs and their families. The operation underscores growing security concerns within France''s digital asset community as criminals exploit the sector''s high-profile wealth.

The latest detentions relate to a May 1 incident where four assailants abducted a crypto founder''s father in Paris'' 14th arrondissement. In a brutal escalation, kidnappers severed the victim''s finger while demanding millions in ransom. Moroccan national Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, 24, has been identified as the alleged mastermind behind multiple operations.

Prosecutors have now charged 25 individuals aged 16-23 connected to attempted abductions. The criminal spree began in January with the kidnapping of Ledger executive David Balland and his partner, revealing a pattern of social media recruitment for these violent schemes.