Quick overview

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Morocco detained a man who is thought to have been involved in several recent crypto kidnappings in France, including that of Ledger’s co-founder. Numerous mobile phones and bladed weapons were allegedly discovered in the possession of the suspect, a French-Moroccan national.

Interpol Red Notice was issued for 24-year-old Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, who was wanted by French authorities.

The announcement had been made in connection with accusations of hostage arrest, kidnapping, false imprisonment, or arbitrary detention. Morocco’s national police and intelligence agency captured Bajjou in Tangier, a city in the country’s north, at the request of French authorities.

The nation’s General Directorate officially confirmed the operation for National Security. “I express my profound gratitude to Morocco for this arrest, which highlights the outstanding judicial collaboration between our two nations, especially in the fight against organized crime,” the French Minister said.

French authorities also charged 25 people, including six minors, in connection with a series of kidnappings and attempted abductions in the region.

Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau had an emergency meeting with crypto industry leaders in May.

The ministry later announced plans to improve the safety of individuals involved in the sector. The new measures include giving priority access to police emergency lines, home security evaluations, and safety briefings from French law enforcement.

France has recently experienced several kidnappings and failed attempts targeting crypto executives and their families. Attackers allegedly tried to abduct the daughter and grandson of Pierre Noizat, CEO of French crypto platform Paymium.

The father of a French crypto millionaire was kidnapped in Paris in May while he was out for a walk with his dog. The victim was later released after being detained for a few days after a ransom demand of about $8 million.