Macron Insists Pavel Durov’s Arrest Is Not Political, French Authorities Reveal True Reason

• French President clarified that the Telegram CEO’s arrest has no political angle and is based on an ongoing investigation.
• French authorities filed 12 criminal charges against Pavel Durov.
• The UAE has also extended support to the Telegram CEO and said any possible legal help would be their top priority.

On Aug. 27, French President Emmanuel Macron took to social media  to quell the global uproar over the sudden arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, categorically denying that politics played a role in the controversial detention.

With critics crying foul and free speech advocates up in arms, Macron’s assurance that the ongoing judicial investigation is “in no way a political decision” will be put to the test as the world watches Durov’s fate unfold.

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French Authorities Reveal 12 Charges Against Telegram CEO

The Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office has disclosed that its cybercrime division has been investigating Durov since July, focusing on his role in managing the popular messaging platform.

The French authorities have framed  12 criminal charges against the Telegram founder.

Durov, who became a French citizen in August 2021 (listed as “Paul Du Rove” in judicial filings), is also accused of withholding vital information from law enforcement authorities.

Moreover, he faces serious charges related to child pornography, including possession and distribution of illicit content involving minors. Additionally, French authorities allege that Durov participated in illegal drug trafficking.

The detention is set to last until Aug. 28.

World Unites Against Durov’s Arrest

Telegram is a popular instant messaging app that has gained popularity in regions with limited accessibility to traditional applications.

Its popularity also stems from the fact that it’s an encrypted messaging service with little to no censorship. The platform’s lack of censorship is a key reason behind French authorities’ ongoing investigation.

The arrest of a Telegram CEO over creating a platform that provides instant connectivity with little to no censorship prompted Edward Snowden and many others to call out the French government for curtailing free speech and arresting someone for merely creating a platform. 

Apart from activists, the United Arab Emirates has also extended support to the founder of Telegram. The UAE authorities released a notification  on Aug. 26, informing that they are closely monitoring the proceedings following the arrest of Durov. 

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs said that caring for citizens, preserving their interests, following up on their affairs, and providing them with all aspects of care are a top priority for the UAE.

About the Author

Prashant Jha

Prashant Jha is a crypto-journalist focused on the US and UK markets, his interests lie in blockchain technology and crypto adoption across emerging economies.

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