Alleged mastermind behind French crypto kidnapping spree arrested in Morocco: report

A 24-year-old French-Moroccan citizen suspected of orchestrating a series of high-profile crypto-related kidnappings in France has been arrested in Tangier, Morocco, according to French outlet Le Parisien . Interpol had previously published a "red notice" for the suspect, Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, who was wanted in France for several crimes, including armed extortion and kidnapping.

Bajjou was detained this week in connection with multiple attacks targeting crypto entrepreneurs and high-net-worth individuals. Bajjou allegedly played a central role in coordinating abductions and extortion attempts from abroad, with incidents dating back to July 2023. One case involved the kidnapping of an elderly woman from her home, with attackers allegedly demanding a cryptocurrency ransom from her son. Two individuals have already been indicted in that case.

French prosecutors are also investigating Bajjou’s potential link to the abduction and torture of Ledger co-founder David Balland. The attackers reportedly demanded 10 million euros in crypto and severed one of Balland’s fingers as leverage.

Additionally, authorities believe Bajjou may be connected to a foiled extortion attempt involving Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat's family members in May. Masked assailants attempted to kidnap Noizat’s daughter, her husband, and their child in broad daylight. Bystanders intervened and chased the attackers away. Police later indicted 25 suspects — including teens and minors — allegedly connected to the scheme.

Police reportedly seized "multiple bladed weapons," dozens of cell phones, and a sum of money cash allegedly related to criminal activities from Bajjou as he was taken into custody, according to local Moroccan media. 

Responding to Bajjou's arrest, French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin thanked Moroccan officials for their cooperation. However, authorities believe another Franco-Moroccan man, described as a ringleader in his 40s, remains at large. 

The arrest comes amid heightened concern over a wave of crypto-targeted crimes in France. Bruno Retailleau, the French interior minister, vowed to locate the perpetrators and protect crypto businesspeople in a meeting with industry leaders. The issue is part of a broader crime spree impacting large crypto holders worldwide. Similar cases have been reported in the UK and the United States .