French Prosecutors Charge 88 for Physical Crypto Theft... Violent Crimes Occurring Every 2.5 Days

French authorities have launched a large-scale judicial operation in response to physical crypto theft crimes, known as "wrench attacks," which have been rampant since early 2026. Through this operation, a total of 88 individuals were charged for involvement in violent crypto kidnapping and extortion cases. In 2026, these attacks have occurred on average every 2.5 days in France, heightening the security crisis.

The French National Jurisdiction against Organized Crime (Pnaco) is currently conducting 12 active judicial investigations, with 75 of the 88 charged individuals in pre-trial detention.

The 88 charged individuals were identified across 12 separate investigation processes managed by Pnaco. Investigative authorities believe they targeted crypto holders and their families, using physical violence to force asset transfers. Currently, 75 of the charged individuals—the vast majority—are being held in custody while awaiting trial, suggesting that this measure is more than just a one-off arrest.

Surging Crime in 2026: Attacks Every 60 Hours

From January to April 2026, a total of 41 physical attacks related to cryptocurrency were confirmed in France. This indicates a rapid acceleration in the rate of crime compared to the 135 total cases recorded over the past three years. Statistically, a new victim emerges every 60 hours, pushing the anxiety of crypto investors in France to its peak.

• In April 2026, six suspects were arrested in two separate operations related to kidnappings in Challes-les-Eaux and Dompierre-sur-Mer.
• On February 6, 2026, a shocking incident occurred in the Drôme region where a judge and her mother were kidnapped and found injured in a garage.
• Investigative authorities are tracking these attacks, noting they are highly organized, with some evidence of collusion with overseas forces.

The most concerning aspect of the suspects' demographics is the high proportion of minors involved. More than 10 of the 88 charged were confirmed to be minors, showing that organized crime groups are actively recruiting young people as executors of violent crimes. Analysis suggests that crimes targeting crypto holders are evolving beyond simple robbery into systematic organized crime.

According to data from global security firm CertiK, France is becoming a major target for "wrench attacks" worldwide. While 72 physical attacks were confirmed globally in 2025, 19 occurred in France alone, the highest in Europe. The 41 attacks in early 2026 prove that France has emerged as a global hotspot for crypto-related physical crimes.

Institutional Response and Market Impact

Recognizing the severity of these crimes, the French National Jurisdiction against Organized Crime (Pnaco) is centralizing related cases to consolidate investigative capabilities. Pnaco intends to punish them severely within the framework of violent crimes such as kidnapping, confinement, and organized extortion, going beyond simple theft. This judicial response reflects the French government's determination to establish a zero-tolerance principle for crypto crimes.

This situation is having economic repercussions across the French crypto ecosystem. Crypto-related companies are facing increased operational burdens due to rising security and insurance costs, and fear for physical safety is spreading among investors. Experts warn that if this security crisis persists, France's competitiveness in the crypto industry could weaken.

With a large-scale trial scheduled for the 75 currently detained suspects, the French judicial system faces a significant test. Investigative authorities are strengthening international cooperation to block potential overseas links of criminal organizations and are advising investors on security guidelines to prevent further crimes. The outcome of the upcoming trials is expected to serve as an important precedent for crypto-related violent crimes.