Final suspect arrested in Ledger co-founder kidnapping

Spanish police arrested the final suspect in the 2025 kidnapping of Ledger co-founder David Balland, ending a cross-border manhunt. The gang demanded a €10 million crypto ransom and reportedly tortured Balland.

Spanish authorities have arrested a suspect wanted by France for the January 2025 kidnapping of Ledger co-founder David Balland. The arrest took place in Benalmádena under a European warrant, marking the final apprehension in a high-profile case involving a criminal group that demanded a €10 million ($11.5 million) crypto ransom. Balland and his partner were abducted from their home in France, held captive, and reportedly tortured—including the severing of a finger—before being rescued by police within 24 hours. The suspect had evaded capture for over a year, moving between Spanish cities and using various methods to avoid detection. This arrest concludes a cross-border investigation and is part of a broader crackdown on violent attacks targeting crypto owners in Europe. French authorities have now identified and detained all members of the gang, and extradition proceedings are underway to return the suspect to France for trial.