CORNERFLICK
French investigators say Kylian Mbappé was among the possible targets of a suspected gang linked to attempted kidnappings and attacks on wealthy and well-known figures.
What the French case alleges
According to Le Parisien, police suspect 18-year-old Clément L., known by the alias “Lester Z”, of leading a series of planned home attacks and kidnap plots. He was charged in Nanterre on 21 August alongside one alleged accomplice with organised theft.
The investigation covers incidents and planned offences said to have taken place between 11 April and 19 August 2026 in areas including Neuilly-sur-Seine, Saint-Brice-sous-Forêt and Santeny. Investigators believe the group may have planned attacks or kidnappings involving at least 26 people, including business owners, musicians and sports figures.
Mbappé link and the wider probe
Le Parisien reported that members of the gang were planning to kidnap the Real Madrid and France forward, but no details have been published on how far any such plan progressed or how Mbappé was selected as a target.
The trail reportedly began after an attack on a watchmaker in Neuilly-sur-Seine in April. Clément L. remains in custody and has been moved to solitary confinement, while his alleged accomplice has been released under judicial supervision.
He has appealed against both solitary confinement and continued detention, but the prosecutor’s office in Versailles opposed release at the hearing, citing his record and the new allegations. The case remains under judicial investigation and no final ruling has been made.