Arrest of a dual French-Moroccan national suspected of involvement in kidnapping and extortion charges

On June 4, 2025, a joint security operation led by the Directorate General of Territorial Surveillance (DGST) and the National Judicial Police Brigade (BNPJ) resulted in the arrest in Tangier of a 25-year-old man holding dual French and Moroccan nationality. He is suspected of involvement in complex kidnapping and extortion cases related to cryptocurrency trafficking.

This arrest is part of an international collaboration between Morocco and France. It followed the reception by Moroccan authorities of an official file transmitted by the French judiciary, including accusations regarding acts committed on French soil.

During the search conducted by law enforcement, several bladed weapons were seized, including swords and machetes of various sizes. Numerous mobile phones and communication devices were also confiscated for in-depth technical analysis.

A significant amount of money was also found in the suspect’s possession. This sum is believed to be linked to illegal activities conducted within a transnational criminal network, notably using cryptocurrencies for money laundering.

Initial investigations indicate that the suspect was responsible for acts of violent extortion targeting cryptocurrency traders, demanding substantial ransoms. These activities form part of an organized and structured transnational crime dynamic.

The suspect was placed in custody under Moroccan judicial supervision. This measure aims to enable further investigations and collect all necessary evidence within the ongoing judicial process, in accordance with national legislation.

This operation demonstrates the Moroccan authorities’ determination to fight organized crime, especially that exploiting new technologies and virtual currencies, in order to safeguard national security and the country’s economic stability.