Family of Crypto Exchange CEO Attempted to Kidnap in the Middle of the Street in Paris

In an incident that occurred on Tuesday morning in Paris, the capital of France, the daughter, partner and granddaughter of the CEO of cryptocurrency exchange Paymium were targeted by armed assailants. In the attack, which took place in the 11th district of Paris, four masked men got out of a white minivan and approached the family.

Three people were taken to hospital with minor injuries, AFP reported. Security camera footage of the incident clearly shows the moment the woman grabbed a gun from one of the attackers and threw it into the street.

The couple's cries for help drew the attention of nearby residents, with eyewitnesses saying one person tried to ward off the attackers with a fire extinguisher.

As the incident escalated, the attackers got into their vehicle and fled the scene.

INVESTIGATION STARTED

The Paris prosecutor's office announced that it has launched a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The investigation is being carried out on charges of "attempted kidnapping by an organized gang, forced detention, serious violence and membership in a criminal organization."

This latest incident is considered part of the increasing attacks on the cryptocurrency sector in France.

In January, David Balland, one of the founders of French crypto company Ledger, and his wife were kidnapped from their home, and Balland's hand was cut off. The couple was rescued in a police operation, and part of the ransom was paid.

In response to increasing threats, French Interior Minister Bruno Retailleau announced that he will hold a security-focused meeting with entrepreneurs in the crypto sector. The ministry draws attention to the fact that attacks on the sector have links to organized crime.

Source: News Center