In a stunning turn of events, Russian billionaire and Telegram founder Pavel Durov has been arrested amid serious allegations. Paris Prosecutor Laure Beccuau revealed that Durov is under investigation for charges related to child exploitation videos, drug trafficking, and fraud. As the scandal unfolds, here’s everything we know so far about this high-profile case.
Beccuau stated that Durov was detained by the cybercrime unit on July 8 as part of an investigation into an unnamed individual, regarding videos containing child abuse, drug trafficking, fraud, operating an online platform that facilitates illegal activities, and money laundering. It was noted that Durov could be held in custody until Wednesday.
'Claiming that a platform or its owner is responsible for the misuse of that platform is absurd,' the statement added.
'What are they trying to charge him with? Without knowing this, it would probably be wrong to make any statement.' An unnamed police spokesperson stated that Durov was being investigated by national cybercrime and fraud offices for not cooperating regarding cyber and financial crimes committed through Telegram and social media.
He was reportedly held as part of a preliminary investigation into claims that numerous crimes were being committed on the platform due to a lack of moderators on Telegram and a lack of cooperation with the police. The 39-year-old billionaire, referred to as 'Russia's Mark Zuckerberg,' holds dual citizenship in France and the United Arab Emirates. Forbes estimates Durov’s net worth at $15.5 billion. In April, Durov mentioned that some governments were trying to pressure him but stated that the app should remain a neutral platform, not a 'geopolitical player.'