- Telegram's founder granted temporary freedom from jail custody
Pavel Durov, Telegram's Creator, Granted Bail after French Arrest and Interrogation
Pavel Durov, the mastermind behind Telegram, has been granted bail following his detention in France and questioning by an investigative judge. The French justice system has launched an examination into Durov, alleging various charges such as insufficient assistance in criminal investigations and involvement in illicit acts, as announced by the Paris prosecutor's office in the late afternoon hours.
Durov has also been placed under judicial supervision. In addition to posting a five million euro bond, he is required to meet with the police twice a week and is restricted from leaving France, the prosecutor's office stated further.
Durov Accused of Inadequate Aid in Probes
According to the prosecutor's office, investigations against Durov have been ongoing for some time. The allegations against him include complicity in drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud, and multiple offenses related to child abuse by failing to intervene through Telegram and insufficient cooperation with authorities. Additionally, suspicion exists over his lack of cooperation in legally authorized surveillance.
Due to these allegations, Durov was sought by the authorities. He was apprehended at a Paris-adjacent airport on Saturday evening.
Durov Faces Up to Ten Years in Jail
If the investigation against Durov uncovers substantial evidence, the proceedings could lead to a criminal trial. Alternatively, they may also choose to close the case. With regards to facilitating unlawful transactions through the chat service alone, Durov risks up to ten years in prison and a fine of 500,000 euros, as announced by the prosecutor's office.
Telegram has come under fire for its perceived inability to effectively address hate speech and other unlawful activities on its platform. The company claims it adheres to "industry standards" in its response to this criticism.
Durov "has nothing to hide," Telegram declared in defense of its founder. It also considers it ridiculous to hold a platform or its owner liable for the misuse of the service by external parties.
People around the world are expressing concern over Pavel Durov's situation, given the serious allegations against him. Despite being granted bail, Durov faces up to ten years in jail if deemed guilty by the French justice system.
