French judges have mandated that Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, stay within France’s borders as investigations into alleged criminal activities on the messaging platform continue.
The decision comes after Durov posted a €5 million bail, allowing him to avoid imprisonment, according to a report by Sky News.
Durov was apprehended on Saturday at Le Bourget airport, following his arrival from Azerbaijan by private jet. The arrest has sparked widespread attention due to the serious nature of the allegations being investigated.
Authorities are probing claims that Telegram has been used to facilitate the exchange of child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, fraud, and money laundering.
In response to these allegations, Telegram has issued a statement vehemently denying any wrongdoing. The company insists that it complies with European Union laws and that its content moderation practices are “within industry standards and constantly improving.”
The statement further asserted, “It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner is responsible for abuse of that platform.”
The arrest of the 39-year-old Russian national, who also holds citizenship in France, the UAE, and St. Kitts and Nevis, has prompted responses from high-level French officials. Earlier this week,
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed the situation, clarifying that Durov’s detention was the result of a judicial investigation rather than a politically motivated decision.
In a statement released on his verified X (formerly Twitter) page on Tuesday, Macron emphasized the independence of the French judiciary and reiterated that the government does not interfere in legal proceedings.
“France is deeply committed to freedom of expression and communication, to innovation, and to the spirit of entrepreneurship. It will remain so,” Macron stated, addressing speculation that the arrest might have had political undertones.
The President continued, “In a state governed by the rule of law, freedoms are upheld within a legal framework, both on social media and in real life, to protect citizens and respect their fundamental rights. It is up to the judiciary, in full independence, to enforce the law. The arrest of the president of Telegram on French soil took place as part of an ongoing judicial investigation. It is in no way a political decision. It is up to the judges to rule on the matter.”
The Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office has indicated that Durov could face a dozen charges, including complicity in drug dealing, money laundering, and facilitating the distribution of child pornography.
The legal process is ongoing, with Durov’s legal team expected to mount a robust defense against the accusations.