Binance France executive survived a failed home invasion as three masked suspects fled after stealing phones, raising security concerns.
An executive linked to Binance France was targeted during a failed home invasion attempt on 12 February. The incident led to new concerns on security threats to the crypto industry’s leaders. According to the French media reports, three masked suspects broke into a residence, but left when they found the intended occupant was absent.
RTL Reports Failed Break-In at Binance France Executive’s Residence
French broadcaster RTL said the attackers stormed a building in Val-de-Marne at around 07:00. The suspects allegedly searched for the apartment of Binance France’s head. However, after finding that he was not present, they fled with 2 mobile phones.
At first, the group reportedly forced their way into the home of another resident. They allegedly demanded directions to the right apartment. Police sources that RTL has quoted said that the suspects then moved on to the executive’s residence. Shortly after that, they abandoned the spot.
In addition, investigators were able to rapidly track down the stolen phones. Signals apparently led authorities to a second incident later in the morning. At about 09:15, an alert was received by the police in Hauts-de-Seine. A Vaucresson resident said masked people hit her with their gun butts.
CCTV footage reportedly linked both cases. Authorities saw the same vehicle near the Val-de-Marne site earlier. In addition, phone tracking data also corresponded with the Vaucresson location. These findings added to suspicions of coordinated activity by the same trio.
Furthermore, the actions of the attackers seemed disorganized. The Vaucresson resident, who has reported to have overheard the suspects talking about the confusion in addresses. Statements such as “The address isn’t right” were mentioned. They cited also the “Stéphane lives at number 41”, RTL sources said.
Subsequent checks proved that a crypto entrepreneur lived at number 41. However, the suspects had targeted another address. Shortly after they realised the error, they ran away from the scene. No fatalities were reported in either case.
Suspects Arrested at Lyon Train Station
Later that day 3 suspects were arrested by police at a train station in Lyon. Authorities reportedly arrested them without much resistance. Investigators are now looking at possible motives, including targeted criminal intent.
Security analysts said threats against high-profile executives in crypto are increasing. Digital asset leaders frequently deal with large holdings and sensitive data. Therefore, they may get the attention of the criminal. Similar warnings have been made by law enforcement agencies across Europe recently.
Meanwhile, Binance has not shared additional security measures in public. However, the case revived the debate about executive protection strategies. Experts recommend increased residential surveillance and travel discretion. Such steps may help minimize the exposure to targeted attacks.
The investigation is still continuing under the French authorities. Prosecutors are supposed to consider evidence such as CCTVs and digital tracking records. Further updates might help explain whether the suspects acted alone or in a larger network.