Following at least three kidnapping attempts targeting leaders in France’s cryptocurrency sector and their families since the start of the year, French authorities have pledged enhanced security measures to protect those involved in the industry.
The French Interior Ministry announced that a group of prominent crypto entrepreneurs and their relatives will be granted priority access to emergency police services, home security visits, and safety briefings conducted by law enforcement officials. Additionally, police officers will undergo specialized training focused on combating crypto-related asset laundering.
Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing these alarming incidents:
These repeated kidnappings of professionals in the crypto sector will be countered with specific, immediate, and short-term tools aimed at prevention, deterrence, and protection.
The announcement came after Retailleau met with leaders from the French crypto community following a recent wave of violent cases. The latest incident occurred on Tuesday, when four individuals attempted to abduct the daughter of Paymium’s CEO and her young son in broad daylight. Earlier in the year, David Balland, cofounder of Ledger, was kidnapped, and just weeks ago, the father of another crypto entrepreneur was also taken.
France’s organized crime prosecutor is leading investigations, which have already resulted in several arrests. Retailleau noted that the cases likely share connections.
