Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder and CEO of Telegram, remains in French custody following his arrest at Le Bourget airport near Paris on August 24, 2024. The Paris prosecutor’s office has officially revealed 12 charges against Durov, including complicity in the administration of an online platform for illicit transactions by organized gangs, refusal to cooperate with authorities, and involvement in crimes such as drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, and child exploitation.French President Emmanuel Macron has addressed the situation, emphasizing that Durov’s arrest is ‘in no way a political decision’ but rather part of an ongoing judicial investigation. Macron stated, ‘France has never been more committed to freedom of expression and communication, innovation, and entrepreneurship. It will remain so’.Durov’s detention has been extended until August 28, 2024, as the investigation continues. If convicted, he could face up to 20 years in prison under French law. The case has sparked international debate about platform responsibility and freedom of speech, with figures like Elon Musk criticizing the arrest and arguing that freedom of speech in Europe is under threat.Telegram has responded to the situation, maintaining that the platform ‘complies with EU laws, including the Digital Services Act’ and that ‘its moderation is within industry standards and constantly improving’. The company stated, ‘It is absurd to suggest that a platform or its owner is responsible for the abuse of the platform itself’.The Russian embassy in Paris has called on French authorities to ensure Durov’s rights are protected and for the reason behind his detention to be clarified. Meanwhile, the European Commission has announced that it is monitoring the situation.As the investigation unfolds, the case continues to raise important questions about the balance between online privacy, freedom of expression, and the responsibility of platform owners in moderating content and cooperating with law enforcement.
Key points
- Pavel Durov faces 12 charges in France, including complicity in terrorism, drug trafficking, and child exploitation.
- French President Emmanuel Macron insists the arrest is not politically motivated.
- Durov’s detention has been extended until August 28, 2024, sparking international debate on platform responsibility.
- Telegram maintains compliance with EU laws and industry standards for moderation.
Contradictions👾While Telegram claims compliance with EU laws and industry standards, French authorities allege that the platform has failed to cooperate adequately with law enforcement.
