Morocco Arrests Key Suspect in French Crypto Kidnapping Cases

A key suspect believed to have orchestrated a series of violent kidnappings targeting cryptocurrency entrepreneurs in France has been arrested in Morocco. Authorities say the arrest followed an international red notice and months of coordinated investigation into crimes that shocked France’s crypto community.

Good to know

• The suspect, Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, was arrested in Tangier following an Interpol red notice.
• Victims of the alleged attacks include high-profile crypto figures like Ledger co-founder David Balland.
• French authorities suspect Bajjou coordinated abductions from abroad.

Moroccan authorities detained 24-year-old Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou in the northern city of Tangier. The arrest followed a red notice issued by Interpol at the request of French prosecutors, who have been investigating a wave of violent incidents involving crypto investors and their families.

The Moroccan General Directorate for National Security confirmed the arrest, which is seen as a breakthrough in France’s effort to clamp down on organized crime targeting wealthy digital asset holders.

High-Profile Targets and Brutal Tactics

French investigators believe Bajjou may have played a role in the January kidnapping of David Balland, co-founder of crypto hardware firm Ledger. During the abduction, Balland was physically assaulted and reportedly had his finger cut off as part of a ransom demand. He was later rescued by police.

More recent incidents are also linked to the same suspect. One of the most widely shared videos on social media in May showed masked men attempting to abduct the pregnant daughter of crypto entrepreneur Pierre Noizat. The attackers were reportedly fought off, and no one was harmed. Authorities suspect Bajjou may have coordinated that attempt as well.

France and Morocco Coordinate on Investigation

French Justice Minister Gerald Darmanin acknowledged the cooperation between French and Moroccan authorities, stating on social media:

“I sincerely thank Morocco for this arrest, which demonstrates excellent judicial cooperation between our two countries, particularly in the fight against organized crime.”

The arrest adds pressure to uncover any broader network behind the targeted kidnappings and attempted abductions, many of which appeared to be aimed at forcing victims to hand over crypto assets under duress.

Authorities in France continue to investigate how Bajjou may have organized the attacks while operating from outside the country. More arrests could follow as law enforcement agencies in both countries pursue leads linked to the network.