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Moroccan authorities have arrested Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, a French-Moroccan national accused of orchestrating multiple high-profile kidnappings that targeted cryptocurrency executives and their families in France. This arrest marks a significant development in ongoing efforts to combat crypto-related crimes.

Arrest in Tangier: A Coordinated Operation

Bajjou, 24, was apprehended in Tangier on June 4, following a 2023 Interpol red notice requested by French authorities. The operation was carried out by Morocco’s National Brigade of the Judicial Police and the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance. Authorities reportedly found Bajjou in possession of a collection of bladed weapons, mobile phones, communication devices, and a sum of cash suspected to be linked to unlawful activities. The seized electronics are currently undergoing forensic analysis.

Allegations of Crypto-Targeted Crimes

French prosecutors allege that Bajjou played a central role in several violent kidnapping plots, including the January abduction of David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, a leading French cryptocurrency wallet provider. According to investigators, Balland was tortured during the incident, with one of his fingers severed as kidnappers demanded a multimillion-euro cryptocurrency ransom.

“The arrest of Bajjou is a critical step in dismantling networks targeting the crypto community,” said an investigative source familiar with the case.

Crypto Executives and Families Under Threat

Bajjou’s arrest is part of a broader investigation into a series of crypto-related kidnappings across France. In one chilling incident on May 13, masked assailants attempted to abduct the daughter and grandson of Pierre Noizat, CEO of the cryptocurrency exchange Paymium, in central Paris. The attack, which was captured on video, was thwarted by bystanders, forcing the kidnappers to flee the scene.

Earlier in May, police rescued the father of a wealthy crypto entrepreneur who had been held captive for several days. The kidnappers had used a stolen van disguised with fake courier branding and demanded a €7 million ransom in cryptocurrency. These events highlight the growing risks faced by individuals involved in the cryptocurrency industry.

French Authorities’ Countermeasures

In response to these incidents, French law enforcement implemented several countermeasures aimed at protecting crypto executives and their families. These measures include enhanced surveillance, access to emergency police lines, and home security assessments.

A significant breakthrough occurred on May 27, when coordinated raids across Île-de-France and Loire-Atlantique led to the arrest of over a dozen suspects. The operation was spearheaded by the Brigade de Répression du Banditisme, France’s elite anti-gang unit. Investigators uncovered a loosely organized network that reportedly recruited young operatives through social media platforms.

Dozens Charged in Connection with Kidnapping Plots

By May 31, French prosecutors had formally charged 25 individuals, some as young as 16, in connection with attempted kidnappings. Authorities believe the suspects played various roles, from logistics handlers to active participants in the attacks. Many of the detainees are from the Paris region, though others have ties to countries such as Senegal, Angola, and Russia.

Investigators revealed a pattern of coordinated actions by the group, including the use of stolen vehicles, fake courier branding, and pre-planned surveillance of their victims. Bajjou’s arrest is expected to provide further insights into the network’s operations and its leadership structure.

Rising Threats in the Cryptocurrency Space

The recent spate of kidnappings underscores the increasing dangers faced by individuals involved in the cryptocurrency sector. As digital assets grow in prominence, so too does the risk of criminal activity targeting those associated with the industry. Experts recommend that crypto executives and investors take proactive measures to safeguard their personal security, including:

  • Enhancing home and workplace security systems.
  • Maintaining a low profile regarding financial holdings.
  • Avoiding sharing sensitive information on social media.
  • Using secure communication channels for business-related discussions.

Looking Ahead

Bajjou’s arrest represents a significant step forward in addressing the threats posed to the cryptocurrency community. As law enforcement agencies continue their investigations, industry participants are urged to remain vigilant and adopt robust security practices to mitigate risks.

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