Telegram CEO Pável Dúrov Detained in France
Pável Dúrov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, was detained at Le Bourget airport in Paris on Saturday night after arriving from Azerbaijan. His detention stems from ongoing legal proceedings in France, where he faces accusations of failing to prevent organized crime on his platform. The French police have been investigating Dúrov for his alleged negligence regarding drug trafficking, cryptocurrency fraud, and the promotion of terrorism via Telegram, which boasts around 900 million active users. His police custody has been extended as authorities continue to gather evidence against him.
Legal Troubles and International Reactions
The arrest has drawn international attention, with Russian authorities accusing France of failing to cooperate in the matter. The Russian embassy in Paris has demanded consular access to Dúrov, arguing that he holds dual nationality and should be entitled to protection under both French and Russian laws. Meanwhile, the investigation in France is being led by a cybersecurity gendarmerie unit and the national anti-fraud police unit, who are focused on the platform's alleged role in facilitating criminal activities.
Telegram's Response and Future Implications
In response to the detention, Telegram issued a statement asserting that Dúrov has nothing to hide and emphasizing the platform's commitment to user privacy and security. The company has faced criticism for its moderation practices, with some arguing that it allows harmful content to proliferate unchecked. As the situation unfolds, Dúrov's detention could have significant implications for the future of Telegram and its operations in Europe, especially as the platform seeks to maintain its reputation as a neutral messaging service.
