French investigation uncovers alleged plot to kidnap Kylian Mbappe

French authorities have foiled an alleged criminal plan targeting Real Madrid forward Kylian Mbappe and 25 other prominent figures, according to reports in France.

The group’s intended victims reportedly included footballers, rap artists and wealthy business people. Mbappe, who is also captain of the France national team, was described by a judicial source as one of the most prominent names on the list.

Spanish newspaper Marca reported that authorities had arrested an 18-year-old identified as Clement L., who allegedly ran the organisation under the alias “Lester Z”.

Clement L. was already serving a prison sentence for armed robbery and pimping-related offences. However, investigators reportedly discovered that he had continued to direct members of the gang from inside prison, using Snapchat to communicate instructions.

The investigation began after police examined a robbery at a luxury watch shop in Neuilly-sur-Seine in April. That inquiry led investigators to identify Clement L. as the person allegedly controlling the criminal network.

When authorities searched two mobile phones, they found a list containing addresses and personal information linked to 26 people whom the group allegedly planned to abduct. The targets reportedly included football players, rap artists and extremely wealthy business figures.

According to the judicial source, Mbappe was listed alongside a rap artist and several business people. Among them were a jeweller, a Turkish meat trader and a Chinese businessman, all described as possessing considerable fortunes.

The alleged plot has caused widespread shock in France because of the prominence of the names involved. Mbappe’s inclusion has drawn particular attention because of his status as one of the country’s leading sports figures and as captain of its national team.

Despite the serious allegations against him, Clement L. told investigators that he hoped to continue his education and eventually work as a chef. He had left school during the first year of a vocational training course in cookery.

The reports did not state that Mbappe had been approached or that an attempt had been made to carry out his abduction. They concerned information allegedly recovered during the investigation into the criminal organisation.

The case has also highlighted the investigators’ claim that the suspect was able to remain involved in the group’s activities while in custody, allegedly using Snapchat to maintain contact and issue directions.

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