Pavel Durov, the founding father of Telegram, has formally left France for Dubai after a court docket permitted him to take action.
On March 13, a French decide permitted his request to alter his authorized restrictions, permitting him to depart the nation for “a number of weeks.”
A supply informed AFP, “He left France this morning with the settlement of the authorities.” One other supply confirmed that he took off from Le Bourget airport close to Paris.
Durov bought into authorized bother in August final 12 months when he was arrested in France. Prosecutors accused him of not doing sufficient to cease criminals from utilizing Telegram. They claimed the app allowed unlawful transactions and different illegal actions.
He was launched on a $5.5 million bail however was ordered to remain within the nation whereas the investigation continued. Now, the court docket has allowed him to depart, although it’s unclear if he has absolutely settled the case or if he should return.
The information of his departure made a huge impact on the crypto market. Toncoin (TON), the cryptocurrency linked to The Open Community (TON), jumped greater than 18%, reaching $3.41. The buying and selling quantity additionally skyrocketed by 200% to $486 million, and the market cap climbed to $8.4 billion.
Durov, who has Russian, French, and UAE passports, has defended himself towards the accusations. He insists he has all the time cooperated with authorities. “I used to be accessible and prepared to reply to all requests,” he reportedly informed investigators.
Nevertheless, French officers argued that Telegram wasn’t doing sufficient. In a December 2024 interrogation, Durov mentioned, “I didn’t create Telegram for criminals,” however admitted that some individuals misuse the platform.
His transfer to Dubai, a metropolis identified for its business-friendly surroundings, has raised questions on privateness and authorities management. In the meantime, French officers haven’t but issued a proper assertion on the matter.
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