Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, was released from police custody on Wednesday after being detained by French authorities over allegations that the popular messaging platform was being used for illegal activities. Durov, 39, a Russian-born billionaire, was taken into custody on Saturday, August 24, upon his arrival at Le Bourget Airport in France, following a flight from Azerbaijan.
The arrest was part of an ongoing investigation led by France’s National Anti-Fraud Office, which was initiated on July 8.
The probe is centered on alleged criminal activities facilitated through Telegram, including drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, and the distribution of child sexual abuse material. The authorities are also examining the platform’s alleged failure to cooperate with law enforcement agencies.
Following his release, Durov is expected to appear in court soon, where a judge will determine whether he will face formal charges related to the ongoing investigation. According to a statement from the Paris prosecutor’s office, as reported by the Associated Press, “An investigating judge has ended Pavel Durov’s police custody and will have him brought to court for a first appearance and a possible indictment.”
In response to the allegations, Telegram has reiterated its commitment to adhering to European Union regulations, including the Digital Services Act. The company emphasized that it is “absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform,” firmly defending its stance against the accusations.
Durov’s detention marked a significant development in the ongoing scrutiny of digital platforms and their role in facilitating illegal activities. Under French law, the maximum period for holding an individual in custody before charges must be filed is 96 hours, a limit that was reached before Durov’s release.
As the case progresses, all eyes will be on the upcoming court hearing, which could have far-reaching implications for the future of Telegram and its operations in Europe.
