French authorities have extended the detention of Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov until August 28 as part of an ongoing judicial investigation. On August 24, authorities arrested Durov at Le Bourget airport near Paris. The investigation, according to the French prosecutor’s office, involves several serious charges, including complicity in illegal activities, refusal to cooperate with authorities, money laundering, criminal association, and providing cryptology services without proper authorization.
French President Emmanuel Macron has responded to the controversy surrounding the arrest, asserting that it was not politically motivated and reaffirming France’s commitment to freedom of expression. The president’s remarks aimed to refute the misinformation circulating on social media, which claimed the arrest was an attack on free speech.
Although it’s unclear if the charges directly target Durov, the investigation has raised questions about his role at Telegram. The Paris Public Prosecutor’s Office launched the inquiry on July 8. The United Arab Emirates, where Durov holds citizenship, has expressed concern over his detention and requested that the French government provide him with consular assistance.
Durov’s arrest has sparked widespread criticism on social media, with many viewing the detention as an infringement on freedom of expression. The Telegram team has publicly supported Durov, maintaining that he has “nothing to hide.
