The Russian-born Telegram boss Pavel Durov has been released from police custody and is set to appear before a French investigative judge who will decide whether to place him under formal investigation. This follows his arrest in Paris as part of a probe into organised crime on the social media messaging app. The investigation is directed against unspecified individuals and focuses on crimes such as running an online platform for illicit transactions and possessing images of child sex abuse.
If Durov, a French citizen, is placed under formal investigation, judges will determine whether to put him in pretrial detention based on factors such as the risk of flight. Durov’s French lawyer has not commented on the situation. Telegram, the messaging app he co-founded, said it complies with EU laws and is constantly improving its moderation standards.
As a citizen of multiple countries, including Russia, the UAE, and St. Kitts and Nevis, Durov has garnered attention and support from various governments. The UAE has requested France to provide consular help to Durov urgently. Russian officials have expressed readiness to assist him, despite the complexity of his multiple citizenships.
Amid accusations of stifling freedom of speech, French President Emmanuel Macron refuted claims that Durov’s arrest was politically motivated, stating it was part of an independent investigation. Macron emphasized the importance of upholding freedom of expression within a legal framework to protect citizens’ rights. The situation has sparked a debate on the role of app providers in criminal activities and the boundaries of free speech online.
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