Crypto Trader Kidnapped, Then Freed – Because They Refused to Pay! 😱💸

by

The city of love, Paris, has witnessed another chilling episode of a crypto-related kidnapping. A 35-year-old former cryptocurrency trader, Alexander, was held captive and tortured but was released after the captors failed to extort the €10,000 ransom. One might say the criminals were “crypto-illiterate” – or perhaps they simply lacked the patience of a true investor. 🤷‍♂️

The incident is the 10th crypto-related kidnapping in France during the last few months, out of the 32 reported crimes globally. This indicates that France is increasingly experiencing a surge in crypto-related crimes. One wonders if the criminals are merely trying to keep up with the volatility of the market, or if they’ve simply forgotten that “hodling” means holding your breath until the ransom is paid. 🎯

According to the local newspaper, Le Parisien, Alexander was kidnapped and held captive between Paris and Saint-Germain-en-Laye. The police launched an immediate investigation Tuesday night after receiving a call from Algeria, where the victim’s acquaintance had received a disturbing photo showing Alexander on his knees with his hands tied. One imagines the acquaintance’s reaction: “Oh, not again. Must be another NFT scam.” 🤡

Using the initial investigation and gathered details, authorities geolocated Alexander’s phone to the 10th arrondissement of Paris. Alexander was recognized while returning home after being released. Anti-crime squad officers described him as “shocked” with visible facial injuries from strangulation attempts by his attackers. One might say he’s now the most liquid asset in the neighborhood. 💸

Forensic technicians collected traces and evidence from his clothing and skin to identify the perpetrators, while investigators work to verify his statements about the incident circumstances. At the time of writing, the case is in its initial investigation stage, and there are currently no strong leads to follow, as per police officials. A fitting outcome for a crime that’s as mysterious as a lost private key. 🔐

Crypto Crimes on the rise

This instance is not an isolated incident of crypto-related kidnapping. In June, the French police arrested five people, four adults and one minor, for kidnapping the father of a well-known cryptocurrency entrepreneur. Last month, a court in Brussels imprisoned three men for 12 years each. They were found guilty of kidnapping the wife of a well-known Belgian crypto investor named Stéphane Winkel. One can only hope the wife’s insurance policy covers “emotional distress” from crypto-related trauma. 🧠

Authorities all across the globe have been issuing stern warnings to crypto users. The increasing criminal activity underscores the negative aspects of the cryptocurrency industry. One might argue that the real crime here is the belief that digital money could ever be truly “digital” – or safe. 🌐

Read More

2025-08-28 16:36