Kidnappings Target David Balland, CAC 40 Leaders Amid EU Rules and Morocco-Based Orchestrator in Crypto Crime Surge

Since early 2025, there has been a notable increase in kidnapping attempts targeting French business leaders, including executives from the cryptocurrency sector such as David Balland of Ledger, as well as leaders from CAC 40 companies. Security agencies have suggested the involvement of a common orchestrator potentially based in Morocco. This wave of violence linked to the crypto industry reflects a broader trend where criminal activities have escalated from online platforms to real-world confrontations. The rise in violent kidnappings has been partially attributed to new European Union regulations that make victims more traceable, although some critics argue these rules are being used as a scapegoat. Despite perceptions of anonymity, cryptocurrency assets are more traceable and secure than commonly believed, complicating the dynamics of these crimes.