Telegram Founder Questioned in France Over Alleged Illegal Activities

Telegram Founder Questioned in France Over Alleged Illegal Activities
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Telegram founder Pavel Durov appeared before a Paris court on Monday as part of an ongoing criminal investigation into the platform’s alleged role in facilitating illegal activities. According to French media, Durov faces six charges, including managing an online platform used by organized groups for unlawful transactions—charges that could carry a prison sentence of up to ten years.

Durov, a Russian-born businessman who also holds Emirati citizenship, was detained on August 24, 2024, upon arrival at Le Bourget Airport. He was held for questioning under a case opened on July 8, which includes twelve suspected offenses, such as enabling the distribution of child pornography, drug trafficking, and obstruction of justice through data concealment.

On August 28, the Paris prosecutor’s office announced Durov’s release on €5 million bail, with court-imposed restrictions including a travel ban. The UAE has since requested full consular support for Durov, emphasizing his Emirati citizenship.