France Thanks Morocco Over Arrest of Man Behind Crypto-Related Kidnappings
Rabat – France thanked Morocco today, stressing the country's importance as a strategic ally in security following the arrest of a suspect behind a series of recent crypto-related kidnappings in France.
French Minister of Justice Gerald Darmanin conveyed his country's gratitude in a statement on X, where he 'sincerely thanks Morocco for this arrest.'
He said this 'demonstrates the excellent judicial cooperation between our two countries, particularly in the fight against organized crime.'
Earlier today, a joint operation by national judicial police in coordination with the General Directorate for Territorial Surveillance (DGST) enabled security services to arrest a French-Moroccan national.
A statement from the police indicated that the suspect is thought to be involved in crimes related to kidnapping with extortion, ransom demands targeting cryptocurrency users, as well as money laundering operations as part of an international crime network operating in France.
The arrest took place in Tangier, falling within Moroccan security services' efforts to tackle insecurity.
Police arrested the suspect after receiving a formal complaint from French security services detailing the alleged criminal acts the suspect committed in the European country.
DGSN stressed in a statement today that the security operation is part of ongoing and intensive efforts by the national police to combat transnational organized crime and to deny criminals a safe haven or a legitimate operating base in Morocco.
Many countries, including France, have highlighted Morocco's assistance on the security front.
In April, French Interior Minister Bruno Retalleau described Morocco as a 'precious partner' in security matters.
'We are witnessing a renewed energy in our bilateral relationship, one that extends across multiple fields, including security,' Retailleau said during his visit to Morocco in April.
He also pointed to joint cooperation between Moroccan and French authorities, including the arrest of several major drug traffickers wanted by French authorities.
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