French Authorities Bust Crypto Ransom Kidnapping Ring, Arrest 5 Suspects

French authorities have arrested multiple suspects for kidnapping a magistrate and her mother and demanding crypto ransom. Investigators believe the crime was linked to the victims’ connection to the cryptocurrency industry.
At first, there were five people who were detained, three of whom were arrested overnight and two taken into custody on Sunday morning. The prosecutor, Thierry Dran, confirmed the arrest. Later on Sunday, the authorities arrested another minor who is believed to be connected to the case.

How the Two Women Were Kidnapped

On Friday morning, February 6, the authorities found a 35-year-old magistrate and her 67-year-old mother injured and locked inside a garage in the southeastern Drome region. The two victims had been abducted overnight between Wednesday and Thursday.
While they were abducted, the kidnappers threatened to mutilate the body of the victims if the crypto ransom they demanded was not paid quickly, though the crypto ransom amount demanded was not disclosed.
Luckily, the ransom was not paid despite the threats, and the two women managed to escape on their own by banging on the garage door where they were held in Bourg-les-Valence. A neighbor heard the noise, opened the door, and helped the victims reach safety.

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According to the report shared by the local news outlet, the two suspects who were arrested overnight were trying to board to Spain before the authorities caught up with them.
The prosecutors have revealed that the magistrate’s partner, who was not at home during the abduction, holds a senior position at a cryptocurrency start-up. Meaning, it could be the reason why the abductors came after them.
Additionally, it is confirmed that one of the women in custody is the partner of one of the four male suspects. Officials have not disclosed any other details about the roles of each suspect as the investigation remains ongoing.

The Rise in Crypto Ransom Cases in France

French authorities have admitted to the increase in the number of crypto-related kidnappings going on in the country. Most of these cases have been found to target individuals and families that have any kind of connection to the crypto industry.

In fact, in 2025, Tronweekly recorded how seven suspects were arrested for their involvement in kidnapping a 20-year-old for crypto. This and many more have raised serious concerns about personal security within the sector.

Also Read: 7 Suspects Arrested by French Police Following Crypto Kidnap Attempt