Police arrested the leader of a dangerous gang – organizer of kidnappings of crypto-businessmen

Badis Mohamed Amid Bajou, 24, a French-Moroccan national, was arrested in Morocco on charges of organized kidnapping and extortion. He was internationally wanted by Interpol. French authorities believe he is a key figure in a number of violent crimes targeting participants in the crypto-industry.

One of Baju’s victims was Ledger co-founder David Balland. The criminals chopped off his finger to gain access to cryptocurrency assets and demanded a ransom from his family. Another investigation concerns the kidnapping of the daughter and grandson of another cryptocurrency entrepreneur – the crime took place in Paris and was filmed by witnesses.

The investigation has already counted 25 defendants, including minors. French law enforcers say that another organizer of the gang acted in parallel with Bajou – he allegedly recruited young people through social networks to take part in the attacks.

According to Le Parisien, Bajou is scheduled to be tried under French law despite his stay in Morocco. This was made possible amid warming diplomatic relations between the two countries.

In response to a series of attacks, the French Interior Ministry announced new security measures for representatives of crypto-business. In particular, entrepreneurs will have access to a special police emergency line.