Crypto Gang Kidnapping Judge and Mother Dismantled in France

Cryptocurrency Ransom Demand Six individuals have been arrested in connection with the kidnapping of a judge and her mother in the Drôme department of southeastern France.
According to the Lyon Prosecutor's Office, the suspects demanded a ransom in cryptocurrency from the judge's husband in exchange for their release.
Large-Scale Operation Involving 200 Officers Following the incident, French law enforcement launched an extensive search operation involving approximately 200 police officers.
The victims were discovered injured on February 6 at a train station in Bourg-lès-Valence.
After the victims were taken for medical treatment, authorities intensified the investigation, leading to the detention of six suspects—comprising four men, one woman, and one minor—during raids conducted on February 7 and 8.
Investigation Deepens All suspects brought before judicial authorities have been remanded in custody.
Law enforcement agencies are investigating the possibility that this criminal cell is part of a larger network specifically targeting individuals with cryptocurrency assets.
The investigation has been expanded to include other extortion and kidnapping attempts carried out using similar methods in the region.