Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of the encrypted messaging app Telegram, was arrested on Saturday evening at Le Bourget airport near Paris. The 39-year-old tech billionaire was detained by the Air Transport Gendarmerie (GTA) shortly after disembarking from his private jet, which had arrived from Azerbaijan.
Durov’s arrest was carried out under a French search warrant issued as part of a preliminary investigation into allegations that Telegram’s lack of moderation and cooperation with law enforcement has enabled various criminal activities. These activities reportedly include drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, and the distribution of illegal content, including pedocriminal material. French authorities have argued that features of the Telegram platform, such as the use of disposable phone numbers and cryptocurrency transactions, have facilitated these crimes.
Durov, who holds dual French and Russian citizenship, had reportedly avoided travel to Europe due to his status as persona non grata in France. His recent travels included visits to the Emirates, former Soviet Union countries, and South America. His arrest became possible once he landed on French soil, activating the search warrant against him.
Following his arrest, Durov was taken into custody by investigators from France’s National Anti-Fraud Office, which is linked to the Customs Directorate. He is expected to appear before an investigative judge, facing potential charges that could include terrorism, narcotics, complicity in fraud, money laundering, and facilitating the distribution of illegal content. His indictment is anticipated on Sunday.
Durov, known for his staunch advocacy of privacy and free speech through the Telegram platform, now faces serious legal challenges that could have significant implications for Telegram’s operations and its global user base.