Pavel Durov, the Russian-born founder of Telegram, has been placed under formal investigation by French authorities for alleged complicity in organized crime on the messaging app. His arrest upon arrival in Paris on a private jet has sparked debate on the criminal liability of app providers and the balance between freedom of speech and law enforcement.
Durov, a French citizen, faces charges including failure to cooperate with authorities, aiding and abetting criminal offenses, and providing cryptographic services to criminals. The investigation, launched in February 2024, focuses on Telegram’s alleged lack of compliance with requests for cooperation in criminal cases.
The Paris prosecutor’s office has criticized Telegram’s “near total absence of response” to requests for information, leading to the formal investigation. Durov’s lawyer has dismissed the allegations as “absurd,” stating that Telegram complies with European digital technology regulations.
Being under formal investigation in France does not imply guilt, but indicates that judges believe there is sufficient evidence to proceed with the probe. Durov has been granted bail with conditions, including a €5 million deposit, regular police check-ins, and a ban on leaving France.
Telegram has stated that it adheres to EU laws and moderates content within industry standards. Durov’s citizenship in Russia, France, the UAE, and Saint Kitts and Nevis has drawn attention from multiple governments, with the UAE Foreign Ministry requesting consular services for Durov.
