In a shocking incident known to be part of a series of attacks on cryptocurrency figures, a couple fought off a kidnapping attempt in Paris, caught on video by a witness; the attackers fled empty-handed.
Crypto Executive's Daughter Narrowly Escapes Kidnap Attempt in Paris
Crypto Executive's Daughter Narrowly Escapes Kidnap Attempt in Paris
Cryptocurrency exec's family becomes target of a violent abduction attempt, highlighting increasing risks in the sector.
A masked gang's attempt to abduct the daughter and young grandson of a prominent cryptocurrency executive in Paris was thwarted in a dramatic encounter that left the perpetrators fleeing. The harrowing event took place in the bustling 11th district of the city, where surveillance footage showed three assailants emerging from a white van, ready to execute their abduction. The woman, identified as the daughter of Paymium co-founder, bravely struggled alongside her partner as they faced the onslaught together.
According to police sources, the incident occurred around 08:20 local time on Tuesday when the attackers attempted to pry the family apart in a bold daylight assault. Local media reported that she and her husband managed to fight back, creating a scene that drew the attention of some bystanders who rushed to assist. During the scuffle, the woman reportedly wrestled a firearm from one of the assailants, which was later confirmed to be a replica air gun.
In a scene compounded by tension, initial fear prevented witnesses from intervening. However, as the attack escalated, more onlookers joined the fray, prompting the attackers to abandon their mission. The assailants, who were subsequently seen fleeing in a getaway vehicle, faced resistance from an onlooker who hurled a fire extinguisher at their van in an effort to hinder their escape.
Despite enduring minor injuries, the family received medical attention and was discharged from the hospital soon after. This alarming episode follows a concerning trend in France, where figures associated with the cryptocurrency industry and their families have faced a wave of criminal threats. Just a week prior, authorities had rescued the father of another notable cryptocurrency millionaire, who had been kidnapped while out walking his dog and was later subjected to extreme brutality during his captivity.
The trend underscores a growing concern about targeted crimes against individuals connected to the rapidly evolving cryptocurrency landscape. More recently, in another incident last January, David Balland, co-founder of the cryptocurrency wallet firm Ledger, and his wife were abducted at their residence, leading to intensive searches and immediate law enforcement interventions to ensure their safety.
