Pavel Durov, the creator of Telegram, is under supervised release in France following serious allegations related to his platform. French authorities have initiated an investigation involving cyber and financial crimes.
Arrest and Release
On August 24, French authorities arrested Pavel Durov over allegations of involvement in child sexual abuse material, drug trafficking, fraud, and organized crime. French law allows detaining a suspect for up to 96 hours, which ended on August 28. Prosecutors decided to release him under supervision while continuing the investigation.
Investigation Progress
Last month, a judicial inquiry targeting Telegram revealed twelve potential criminal offenses directly linked to the platform. During his custody, Durov was questioned about his alleged negligence in handling cyber and financial crimes. The Paris Prosecutor’s Office insists that the matter will not be resolved quickly and plans further questioning.
Reactions from Russia and France
Following Durov’s arrest, Russia expressed dissatisfaction, calling it politically motivated. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed that it exemplified Western double standards on freedom of expression. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron emphasized that Durov's arrest is purely a legal matter and has no political undertone.
Whether formal charges will be filed against Pavel Durov is still unknown. A court date has not been set yet. Both sides continue to express their positions, and the investigation is ongoing.
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