French Police Arrest Seven in Swiss Crypto Kidnapping Rescue

French authorities have successfully rescued a 20-year-old Swiss man held hostage in a cryptocurrency ransom kidnapping near Valence, France, involving coordinated efforts from approximately 150 law enforcement officers including the elite GIGN unit. Seven suspects, including a minor, have been arrested and indicted on charges related to kidnapping, extortion, and criminal conspiracy, with the case reflecting a disturbing rise in crypto-related kidnappings in France. These kidnappings, targeting individuals with significant crypto assets, have escalated in recent months and involve violent coercion and ransom demands in cryptocurrency, exploiting the digital asset's fast and discreet transfer capabilities. France has seen multiple high-profile crypto kidnapping cases this year, including attacks on industry executives and their families, highlighting the increasing intersection of organized crime and digital finance. Authorities continue to investigate and respond to these threats, which pose significant challenges for law enforcement and public safety amid the growing crypto economy. The recent rescue operation and arrests mark one of the largest and most coordinated responses to crypto-related crime in the region to date.