French authorities arrested six suspects, including a minor, following the kidnapping of a magistrate and her mother. The kidnappers demanded a cryptocurrency ransom, which investigators believe was motivated by the victims’ connection to the crypto industry. The two women escaped from a locked garage after being held for two days, and no ransom was paid.
French authorities have arrested multiple suspects for kidnapping a magistrate and her mother. Investigators believe the crime was linked to the victims’ connection to the cryptocurrency industry.
A 35-year-old magistrate and her 67-year-old mother were found injured in a garage on February 6. They had been abducted overnight between Wednesday and Thursday, with threats of mutilation if a crypto ransom was not paid quickly.
The two women managed to escape on their own by banging on the garage door in Bourg-les-Valence. A neighbor heard the noise, opened the door, and helped them reach safety.
Initially, five people were detained, with three arrested overnight and two taken into custody on Sunday morning. According to reports, two suspects were trying to board a train to Spain when apprehended.
Prosecutor Thierry Dran confirmed the arrests. Later on Sunday, authorities arrested another minor believed to be connected to the case.
The magistrate’s partner holds a senior position at a cryptocurrency start-up, which prosecutors indicated could be the motive. One of the women in custody is the partner of one of the four male suspects.
French authorities have acknowledged an increase in crypto-related kidnappings targeting individuals connected to the industry. A similar case in 2025 involved the arrest of seven suspects for kidnapping a 20-year-old for crypto.
