Twenty-five people, including six minors, have been charged in Paris for kidnappings and attempted abductions of France's crypto leaders. Eighteen are in pre-trial detention, others await court or are under supervision. Ages range from 16 to 23.
The investigation began with a 13 May daylight kidnapping attempt in eastern Paris, aimed at the daughter and grandson of Paymium's CEO, Pierre Noizat. Prior failed attempts and a separate foiled abduction near Nantes earlier in the week are also linked to the case.
Video footage showed masked attackers assaulting Noizat's family, who were hospitalised with minor injuries. Noizat praised those who defended his family during the attack.
Most suspects are French-born, with some from Senegal, Angola, and Russia. Authorities say the accused include both those who carried out the abductions and those responsible for logistics.
Defence lawyers highlighted the youth of some defendants and their vulnerability to criminal influence. The wave of kidnappings has raised national security concerns, prompting government efforts to protect wealthy crypto entrepreneurs.
Last January, Ledger co-founder David Balland was kidnapped, tortured, and ransomed before being freed.
