Pavel Durov’s Detention: French Authorities Issued Official Statement
YEREVAN (CoinChapter.com) — On August 26, France’s prosecutor’s office provided additional information regarding the arrest and detention of Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov. Durov was initially detained on August 24 at a Paris airport, with few details available until now. According to the prosecutor’s notice, Durov was taken into custody as part of a judicial investigation “against person unnamed,” which involves multiple charges, including complicity with illegal activities, refusal to communicate with authorities, money laundering, criminal association, and providing cryptology services without prior declaration.
Official Press Release on Pavel Durov’s Arrest by Paris Prosecutor. Source: Tribunal Judiciaire de Paris
Authorities have extended the timeframe for Durov’s custody from August 25 to August 28, as they plan to question him further in connection with the investigation. The specific nature of the charges and how they relate to Durov’s role at Telegram remain under judicial scrutiny. The announcement from French prosecutors sheds light on the legal proceedings, which have been shrouded in uncertainty since Durov’s detention.
The announcement came after French President Emmanuel Macron responded to what he called “false information” circulating on social media about Durov’s arrest. In a statement, President Macron emphasized that the arrest was “in no way a political decision” and reaffirmed France’s commitment to freedom of expression. The president’s comments aim to dispel rumors and underscore the legal rather than political nature of Durov’s detention.
Russian Embassy and Social Media Rally Behind Pavel Durov Amid Detention
The Russian embassy has requested information from French authorities regarding Durov’s situation. An embassy spokesperson posted on Telegram on August 25, stating that “the French side has so far avoided cooperation on this issue.” The embassy has also asked for access to Durov and more details about his detention.
Social media users, especially within the Telegram and cryptocurrency communities, have expressed concern over Durov’s detention. The hashtag “#FreeDurov” has gained traction, with many users calling for his release. Elon Musk, owner of X, also shared past interviews with Durov and reposted supportive messages.
Elon Musk Supports Pavel Durov with #FreePavel Post. Source: Elon Docs Telegram Defends Durov in Official Statement
Telegram released an official statement on August 25 through its Telegram News channel. The company emphasized that it complies with EU regulations, including the Digital Services Act, and defended Durov’s actions. The statement read:
“Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov has nothing to hide and travels frequently in Europe. It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform. Almost a billion users globally use Telegram as a means of communication and as a source of vital information. We’re awaiting a prompt resolution of this situation. Telegram is with you all.”
Telegram’s Official Statement on Pavel Durov Detention. Source: Telegram TON Plummets 17% Following Pavel Durov’s Detention
Following Pavel Durov’s detention, the financial markets reacted swiftly. The price of TON, the cryptocurrency associated with Telegram, has seen a significant decline, dropping by 17.58% over the past week. As of now, TON is trading at $5.70, down from a high of $6.92 on August 20. The 24-hour trading volume has also decreased by 21.53%, reflecting the market’s uncertainty in light of the recent news.
Despite the drop in TON’s price, support for Durov remains strong within his community, as evidenced by the ongoing social media campaigns. Telegram users and cryptocurrency enthusiasts continue to rally behind Durov, showing resilience even as market pressures mount.
TON Price Drops Amid Durov’s Detention. Source: CoinMarketCap
The post New Updates on Telegram CEO Pavel Durov’s Detention: French Authorities Issued Official Statement appeared first on CoinChapter.
