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The dark side of crypto just got even darker.
A major international breakthrough has occurred with the arrest of Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, a 24-year-old accused of masterminding a chilling series of crypto-related kidnappings and extortion attempts across France. Moroccan authorities captured Bajjou after he was placed on Interpol’s red notice list, marking a critical turning point in a violent saga that’s sent shockwaves through the global crypto community.
One of the most horrifying incidents linked to Bajjou? The brutal attack on Ledger co-founder David Balland—a name deeply respected in the Web3 space. In a scene straight out of a horror movie, Balland’s finger was severed by his captors as they demanded a staggering €10 million in crypto. Yes, that’s how real the risks are becoming for those holding digital fortunes.
But it didn’t stop there. Bajjou is also believed to be behind a failed kidnapping in May that targeted the family of Paymium CEO Pierre Noizat. Armed men allegedly attempted to abduct Noizat’s daughter, her husband, and even their young child in broad daylight. Thankfully, brave bystanders intervened, forcing the attackers to flee.
The investigation has already led to the indictment of 25 individuals, including minors—showing how deep this network ran. Authorities uncovered weapons, burner phones, and piles of cash connected to the crimes, confirming that these weren’t isolated incidents but part of a coordinated extortion ring targeting France’s crypto elite.
With one ringleader now behind bars, the manhunt continues for another key player—believed to be in his 40s—who remains at large.
France is grappling with a rising wave of crypto-targeted crime, and this high-profile case serves as a wake-up call. As more individuals build digital empires, the line between virtual wealth and real-world danger continues to blur.
Authorities across Europe and the U.S. are now ramping up protective measures, and it’s becoming clear: being crypto-rich comes with real risks. As this space matures, so must our security. 🔐
