Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder and CEO of the popular messaging platform Telegram, faces a string of serious charges following his arrest by French authorities at Le Bourget Airport near Paris. The charges were formally disclosed in a statement released by the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office, shedding light on the alleged criminal activities linked to the tech entrepreneur.
The extensive list of accusations against Durov includes a range of complex and severe offences, reflecting the seriousness of the charges. Among the most significant allegations are:
- Facilitating illegal transactions: Durov is accused of web-mastering an online platform that enabled illegal transactions within an organised group, a charge that underscores his alleged complicity in facilitating unlawful activities through technological means.
- Importing cryptology tools: The charges include importing cryptology tools intended for authentication or integrity monitoring without the necessary prior declaration, pointing to potential violations of cybersecurity laws.
- Refusal to cooperate with authorities: Durov is also accused of refusing to provide crucial information or documents required by competent authorities to carry out legally sanctioned interceptions.
- Involvement in child pornography: The allegations extend to the possession and distribution of pornographic images of minors, with claims of Durov’s involvement in making such material available within an organised group.
- Drug-related offences: The list of charges includes complicity in the acquisition, transportation, possession, and sale of narcotics, further complicating the case against him.
- Cybercrime-related activities: Durov faces accusations of distributing tools and equipment designed to access and damage automated data processing systems, highlighting potential breaches of cybersecurity protocols.
- Organised fraud and criminal association: Durov is also charged with organised fraud and criminal association with the intent to commit offences punishable by five or more years of imprisonment.
- Money laundering: The charges include laundering proceeds derived from organised group offences and crimes, raising questions about financial irregularities linked to his activities.
- Providing unlicensed cryptology services: Finally, Durov is accused of offering cryptology services aimed at ensuring confidentiality without obtaining the required certification.
These charges stem from an extensive judicial investigation that was opened on July 8, 2024, following a preliminary inquiry conducted by the cybercrime unit of the Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office. Durov’s arrest on August 25th has led to an extended custody period, which can legally last up to 96 hours, concluding on August 28th.
UAE Closely Monitoring Pavel Durov’s Case
The case has drawn significant attention from the United Arab Emirates, where Durov is a citizen. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) is closely monitoring the situation and has made a formal request to the French government to provide Durov with urgent consular assistance. “Prioritising the welfare of United Arab Emirates citizens, safeguarding their interests, and providing them with all aspects of support is a key priority for the country,” the Ministry stated, underlining its commitment to protecting the rights and interests of its citizens abroad.
As the investigation unfolds, the international community watches closely, with the potential ramifications of the charges against Durov likely to have far-reaching impacts on both his personal and professional life. Telegram, a platform known for its strong privacy features, now finds its founder entangled in a complex legal battle that could have significant implications for the future of the messaging app and its millions of users worldwide.
