Notably, no ransom was paid before the rescue, according to police sources, although the victim was initially held for a ransom demand of millions of euros.

The identities of the victims remain undisclosed, likely due to safety concerns, but they co-own a crypto marketing firm based in Malta.

The rescue operation took place after 58 hours of intense negotiation, with elite officers from the Brigade de recherche et d’intervention (BRI) executing the plan on May 3, 2025.

The father of a cryptocurrency mogul was kidnapped in Paris and recently freed during a police operation that resulted in the arrest of five suspects.

Upon rescue, the victim was found in shock and with physical injuries, described as 'relatively lucid' but in need of significant psychological recovery.

The police intervention was urgent, prompted by fears of further mutilation, as the victim had already suffered severe injuries, including the amputation of a finger.

Witnesses played a crucial role by alerting the police after hearing the victim's cries, which led to an immediate investigation.

This incident follows a similar kidnapping three months prior involving a Ledger co-founder, highlighting a disturbing trend of violent crimes against the crypto-wealthy.

Concerns have been raised about the increasing criminality linked to the rapid liquidity of cryptocurrencies, which attract criminal interest due to their accessibility.

Experts have observed a rise in kidnapping attempts aimed at crypto users and their families globally, reflecting the increasing wealth perception among cryptocurrency holders.

This case marks the third similar kidnapping reported in France recently, with other incidents also occurring in Belgium and Spain.

Investigators suggest there may be connections between these kidnappings, particularly in their methods, but the exact nature of any links is still under investigation.