Ledger Co-Founder David Balland Freed After Cryptocurrency Ransom Kidnapping, GIGN Involved

Jan 23, 2025, 09:45 AM

David Balland, a co-founder of Ledger, a French cryptocurrency hardware wallet company, was kidnapped from his home in Vierzon, Cher, on January 21. The kidnappers demanded a significant ransom in cryptocurrency. Balland was held hostage for approximately 24 hours before being freed by a police operation on January 22, involving the GIGN, France's elite tactical unit. The operation was described as particularly intense. Balland received medical attention for injuries sustained during his ordeal. The Paris prosecutor's office is leading an investigation into the kidnapping, focusing on identifying and arresting the perpetrators. The crime is punishable by life imprisonment.