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French prosecutors have formally charged 25 suspects—including six juveniles—in connection with a string of abductions targeting cryptocurrency executives and their families. The accused, aged 16-23, allegedly participated in multiple plots across Paris and Nantes, with eighteen currently held in pre-trial detention.
The investigation gained momentum after masked assailants attacked the daughter and grandson of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat in Paris' 11th arrondissement. Social media footage showed four attackers in black assaulting the victims, who sustained minor injuries. This marked the second such attempt in 48 hours, following another foiled plot on May 12.
Court documents reveal the suspects hail from diverse backgrounds spanning France's Paris region, Châtellerault, Senegal, Angola, and Russia. Defense attorneys characterize many as 【young recruits】 lured by financial gain, while investigators continue searching for the operation's masterminds.
The Paris case forms part of a disturbing national trend, including January's abduction of Ledger co-founder David Balland. Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau recently convened emergency talks with crypto firms, resulting in enhanced police protection measures for industry figures.
——The kidnapping wave has sparked a race among insurers to create specialized policies—— At least three firms now offer kidnap-and-ransom coverage for digital asset holders, while private security companies report surging demand for executive protection services.
Authorities confirm the investigation remains active, with four suspects under judicial supervision and three awaiting deferred hearings. The case highlights growing physical security challenges facing Europe's cryptocurrency sector.