
A suspect reportedly involved in high-profile crypto kidnappings in France has been captured in Morocco, according to the government-run Maghreb Arab Press.
At the request of French officials, a joint operation by Morocco’s police took the 24-year-old French-Moroccan, identified as Badiss Mohamed Amide Bajjou, into custody. Moroccan police described him as the mastermind behind these crimes.
French Minister of Justice Gérald Darmanin expressed gratitude towards Morocco for the cooperation in this case, stating, “I sincerely thank Morocco for this arrest, which demonstrates the excellent judicial cooperation between our two countries, particularly against organized crime.”
Interpol has issued a red notice for Bajjou, who is wanted for organized extortion, kidnapping, and violence.
French authorities have already charged over 25 individuals linked to the kidnappings, including six minors. Most recently, a failed kidnapping attempt involving the family of Pierre Noizat, CEO of the crypto exchange Paymium, was reported in May.
The incidents have prompted discussions led by the Minister of the Interior, Bruno Retailleau, to ensure the safety of those involved in the crypto space.