Pavel Durov is currently detained in Paris, France, for a preliminary investigation. Although he has not officially been charged, his detention is set for 96 hours, after which a judge must determine his status.

Here's more insight into the legality of his detention.

⚫ Garde à vue (Article 63 to 77)

French law allows detainment of 24 hours even without formal charges with possibility of extension for up to 144 hours.

⚫ Warrant of Arrest

Issued by the OFMIN under the National Directorate of the Judicial Police (DNPJ), under the umbrella of the French Ministry of Justice. The warrant is only valid if Durov sets foot in France.

⚫ Citizenship

Durov was gifted a French citizenship possibly under the "distinguished foreigner" process in 2021-2022, subjecting him to French law.

⚫ Moments Before the Arrest

The Telegram founder's jet flew from Baku, Azerbaijan, and landed at the French airport around 7:30-8:00 PM local time. Local reports say he knew he was wanted but chose to land anyway. Others suggest either French authorities directed his flight to land in its territory despite an attempt to fly south or that the jet lacked fuel to leave.