Allegations against Telegram CEO include involvement in the dissemination of CSAM and money laundering
French authorities have revealed the reasons for the arrest of Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov on August 24. The arrest was based on a series of charges, including complicity in the distribution of pornographic images of minors in an organized group. These charges stem from a judicial investigation launched on July 8 against an unnamed individual.
Charges and Reactions
The Prosecutor of the Republic, Laure Beccuau, detailed a total of 12 charges against Durov, ranging from money laundering, drug trafficking, fraud, operating an online platform facilitating illegal transactions, to possessing child pornography. Durov can be detained until Wednesday, August 28.
The arrest has prompted debates on the accountability of platform leaders for activities on their platforms. Telegram asserts compliance with EU laws and rejects the notion that platform abuse should be attributed to the platform owner. Public figures like Elon Musk and Edward Snowden have shown support for Durov, with Musk advocating for Durov’s freedom and Snowden deeming the arrest politically motivated. Telegram enjoys significant popularity in Russia and Ukraine.
President Macron’s Response
French President Emmanuel Macron addressed speculations regarding the political motives behind the arrest, affirming France’s commitment to freedom of expression and communication, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Macron highlighted the protection of freedoms within a legal framework in a rule-of-law state, both online and offline, to safeguard citizens’ rights. He underscored the independence of the judiciary in upholding the law.
