Pavel Durov, Telegram Founder, Released But Faces Criminal Charges and Travel Ban in France

Last Updated on August 29, 2024

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Key Takeaways:

  • Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024, and charged with multiple offenses, including money laundering and failure to cooperate with authorities.
  • Released on €5 million bail, Durov is barred from leaving France, raising concerns over freedom of expression and the implications for social media leaders.
  • Separate child abuse allegations against Durov have surfaced in Switzerland, further complicating his legal challenges.

Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, was arrested in France on August 24, 2024, and subsequently charged with multiple criminal offenses.

These charges, brought by French prosecutors, relate to his leadership of Telegram and include complicity in illegal activities, money laundering, and failure to cooperate with authorities.

Durov was released from custody after posting a €5 million bail but is prohibited from leaving France.

His arrest and indictment have sparked concerns about freedom of expression, as Telegram is widely regarded as a platform for free speech.

Durov also faces separate child abuse allegations in Switzerland.

French President Emmanuel Macron denied any political motives behind the arrest, though critics question the implications for other social media leaders.

Telegram has over 900 million monthly active users as of 2024.

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