Kidnappers Target Family of a Major Crypto Leader in Paris

Three masked and armed men attempted to kidnap the daughter and two-year-old grandchild of a crypto entrepreneur in Paris’s 11th arrondissement earlier today, according to French police sources.

The incident occurred on Rue Pache at around midday. Witnesses reported seeing three individuals wearing balaclavas approach the young mother and child.

Crypto Crime Is Expanding Outside the Digital World

According to local reports, the situation escalated quickly when the child’s father intervened. After a struggle, he managed to disrupt the attempted abduction, forcing the assailants to flee the scene.

The attackers escaped in a van, which was later found abandoned a few blocks away. No injuries were reported. 

Since then, authorities have launched a manhunt, and anti-gang units are actively involved in the investigation.

Meanwhile in Paris, FranceAttempted kidnapping of Woman with her 2yo child morning on the streets of Paris – the target is allegedly the daughter of a crypto CEO.Europe is wild. pic.twitter.com/xbOrQyuafN

— Concerned Citizen (@BGatesIsaPyscho) May 13, 2025

The identity of the targeted crypto entrepreneur has not been made public. Officials only confirmed that he is the head of a crypto platform and has significant holdings in digital assets. 

Given recent patterns, authorities are treating the case as a financially motivated targeting of high-net-worth individuals involved in cryptocurrency.

Part of a Growing Trend Targeting Crypto Figures

This incident marks the third kidnapping attempt against individuals connected to the crypto sector in France since January 2025.

David Balland, co-founder of Ledger, and his partner were kidnapped and tortured for a €10 million ransom. Police rescued them, and seven suspects were arrested.

Earlier this month, the father of another French crypto entrepreneur was abducted and held for a ransom estimated between €5 million and €7 million. He was freed during a police operation that resulted in five arrests.

French police now believe organized criminal groups are specifically targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs. They exploit the perceived lack of regulation and the high liquidity of digital assets to demand large ransoms.

The investigation into today’s attempted abduction remains ongoing. Law enforcement agencies have urged anyone with information to come forward.