Paris, France – Telegram CEO Pavel Durov remains in detention in France amidst a criminal investigation surrounding the messaging app’s alleged failure to cooperate with law enforcement requests, as announced by authorities in Paris on Monday. Durov, predominantly based in Dubai, was apprehended at Le Bourget Airport after arriving on a private jet from Azerbaijan.
The French media initially reported Durov’s arrest over the weekend, with prosecutors in Paris confirming the news and providing further details on Monday. The investigation, initiated last month, focuses on undisclosed violations such as the dissemination of child pornography, illegal drug trafficking, and non-compliance with authorities in a probe into organized fraud.
While it remains unclear whether Durov is being questioned as the primary suspect or as an accomplice, French authorities can detain him for questioning until Wednesday, or for a duration of 96 hours under French law. In response to his detention, Telegram stated that holding Durov accountable for platform misuse is unreasonable, emphasizing the app’s compliance with all European Union laws.
Founded by Durov in 2013, Telegram was designed as a secure communication platform beyond the control of authoritarian regimes, gaining immense popularity with over 900 million users. Known for its minimal content moderation, Telegram has faced criticism for its hands-off approach towards addressing issues such as terrorist recruitment and child exploitation on its channels.
Former Facebook executive Brian Fishman highlighted Telegram’s history of disregarding law enforcement requests related to terrorist groups and child pornography. As Durov’s questioning revolves around Telegram’s alleged reluctance to adhere to government demands, some see it as a form of suppressing free speech while others view it as essential for ensuring platform accountability.
Renowned figures like Elon Musk and Edward Snowden have weighed in on Durov’s detainment, with Musk expressing concerns about the potential implications for freedom of expression. French President Emmanuel Macron defended the arrest as part of an ongoing judicial investigation, emphasizing that it is a legal matter to be determined by the judiciary.