25 Suspects in Cryptocurrency Kidnapping Plots Appear in French Court
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May 30, 2025
PARIS (AFP) — In a significant development in the ongoing investigations into a series of kidnapping plots targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs, 25 individuals appeared before French investigating judges on Friday. These suspects are connected to multiple cases involving attempted abductions, which have raised serious concerns regarding the safety of wealthy figures in the burgeoning cryptocurrency sector.
The French authorities recently thwarted another attempted abduction in the western city of Nantes, detaining over 20 suspects linked to this incident and previous ones, including a significant plot against Pierre Noizat, the CEO and co-founder of the cryptocurrency exchange platform Paymium.
Charges and Investigation Details
Several of the suspects faced charges during the court proceedings on Friday, with judges expected to determine if they should be remanded in custody pending further investigation. Prosecutors revealed that these individuals are particularly implicated in the mid-May attack on Noizat’s family, which has captured considerable media attention. The investigation aims to unravel their involvement in other planned kidnappings, potentially leading to indictments for criminal conspiracy.
Among the suspects, at least four are believed to be involved in the foiled kidnapping near Nantes earlier this week. Authorities linked these individuals to the assailants who targeted Noizat’s family, reportedly identifying them via the vehicle they used during the attack.
The active investigations into these kidnappings have been prompted by a broader wave of violence against wealthy individuals in the crypto market. Notably, the spate of abductions began in January when David Balland, a co-founder of Ledger—an established crypto firm—was kidnapped. His ordeal included a gruesome act where his finger was severed as kidnappers demanded ransom. He was freed the following day, with his partner discovered confined in a trunk near Paris.
Government Response and Public Concern
The series of attacks has become a major embarrassment for the French government, prompting swift responses from officials. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau convened an emergency meeting with cryptocurrency leaders earlier this month, unveiling plans to enhance security measures for individuals in the crypto sector.
The growing distress among these entrepreneurs was underscored by one prominent figure, who expressed fears about the deterioration of safety in France, urging the government to address what he termed the "Mexicanization of France.” This statement reflects the increasing alarm regarding the potential for organized crime to target high-net-worth individuals.
The assault on Noizat’s family involved four masked attackers and took place in the vibrant 11th district of Paris. Thankfully, no serious injuries occurred; however, the traumatic experience has left a lasting impact on the victims. Noizat publicly commended his son-in-law’s bravery, who intervened to protect his family using a red fire extinguisher against the assailants.
As the investigations proceed, French authorities appear determined to curtail the threat posed by these violent factions, working diligently to ensure the safety of those within the lucrative cryptocurrency realm.
Conclusion
As more information emerges from this case, it remains clear that the intersection of crime and the burgeoning cryptocurrency market poses unique challenges for law enforcement. The events of recent months underscore a pressing need for enhanced protective measures for individuals involved in this rapidly evolving industry. Further developments are anticipated as investigations continue and as the legal proceedings unfold for the suspects in custody.
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