On April 24, 2026, French prosecutors announced charges against 88 suspects, including more than 10 minors, in connection with a surge of cryptocurrency‑related kidnappings. The crackdown follows 12 major cases and over 135 incidents recorded since 2023, making it one of France’s largest organized crime investigations in recent years.
We saw officials confirm that 75 suspects remain in pretrial detention. “This is a rapidly evolving criminal phenomenon,” chief prosecutor Vanessa Perrée said, noting that structured networks are behind many of the crimes. Victims were often abducted, assaulted, and forced to transfer digital assets under duress.
Our sources verified that incidents have escalated sharply. In 2024, 18 cases were logged. By 2025, the number jumped to 67. Already in 2026, 47 cases have been recorded, raising fears that this year could surpass last year’s total. The trend reflects how criminals are targeting wealthy crypto investors and professionals.
Methods used by gangs included unlawful detention, physical violence, and ransom demands in cryptocurrency. In some cases, victims were mutilated to force compliance. One high‑profile case involved a magistrate and her mother kidnapped in early 2026, linked to her partner’s crypto startup. Another targeted the co‑founder of Ledger, a French crypto firm, who suffered severe injuries.
We talked to investigators who explained that suspects are being cross‑referenced across multiple cases to dismantle organized networks. Recent arrests tied three men to kidnappings in Challes‑les‑Eaux and Dompierre‑sur‑Mer, where victims were forced to transfer €8 million in crypto. “We are dismantling these groups piece by piece,” one officer said.
Crypto Crime on the Rise
Authorities warn that 2026 could set a new record if networks are not disrupted. The crackdown highlights France’s determination to confront digital‑asset crime head‑on. With dozens of suspects charged and more investigations underway, law enforcement is intensifying surveillance and coordination between gendarmerie and judicial police units.
For now, the numbers speak clearly: 88 suspects charged, 135 incidents since 2023, and millions in crypto stolen. France is racing to stop kidnappings before they spiral further out of control.
