- The imprisoned figure behind Telegram's establishment was granted temporary freedom.
French law enforcement has initiated a full-blown probe against Telegram's creator, Pavel Durov, due to allegations of facilitating illegal activities. The French judicial system deems there's enough evidence to support this claim, as stated by the prosecutor's office. Consequently, Durov was granted bail worth five million euros and is now under the close watch of the judicial system, prohibited from departing from France. At the time of this news report, Durov had yet to offer a public statement.
The case against Durov may progress to a full-blown trial if the investigators manage to gather substantial proof against him. On the contrary, they could opt to dismiss the case if the evidence lacks solidity.
Telegram under scrutiny for aiding extreme crimes
As per the prosecutor's office, preliminary investigations against Durov have been ongoing for quite some time. The allegation is that he acted as an accomplice by failing to intervene on Telegram and refused to cooperate with authorities in cases of drug trafficking, money laundering, fraud, and several offenses related to child abuse. Additionally, his refusal to collaborate with authorities regarding legally permitted surveillance measures has also attracted criticism.
Durov was sought by the authorities. On a Saturday evening, he was apprehended at an airport near Paris.
Allegations of severe physical abuse against his child?
As per AFP news, he has also been accused of severe physical abuse towards one of his children. An investigation has been initiated against Durov, as AFP learnt on a Wednesday from sources familiar with the case. The alleged incident of physical abuse involves Durov's 2017-born son, who was attending school in Paris at the time of the incident.
Telegram has defended itself against these allegations. The company maintains compliance with all relevant regulations. Durov, in their eyes, has nothing to hide. Furthermore, they consider it absurd to blame a platform or its owner for misused services by third parties.
Telegram has been criticized for its perceived lax attitude towards hate speech and other illegal activities. The company, however, insists it adheres to "industry standards."
The French authorities have forwarded the case against Durov to The Commission, seeking their guidance on whether the evidence warrants a trial. Despite Telegram's claims of compliance with regulations, The Commission may decide to impose stricter measures on the platform due to its alleged role in facilitating illegal activities.
