Crypto Kidnappers Hold Family Hostage in France Overnight

A family in Vendin-le-Vieil, France was held hostage overnight by four suspects who demanded a 40,000-euro cryptocurrency transfer from the father's wallet. The attack occurred between Saturday night and Sunday morning, with the suspects reportedly entering the home, restraining the family, and searching for the victim's wallet codes.

The father and his 12-year-old daughter suffered minor assaults during the incident, including a blow to the face with car keys. However, no other family member was assaulted. The four suspects fled after allegedly receiving the cryptocurrency transfer, but their identities remain unknown as they are still at large.

The investigation into the kidnapping and extortion is ongoing, with multiple services involved, including the interdepartmental judicial police services of Pas-de-Calais and Nord, and the French anti-cybercrime office (OFAC). The case reflects a broader trend in France, where 135 crypto-related kidnappings have been recorded since 2023, accounting for nearly 80% of Europe's total.