Russian Telegram Founder Arrested in France Amid Major Investigation

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, was detained in France as part of an investigation into crimes involving child pornography, drug trafficking, and fraudulent transactions. French President Macron confirmed the arrest, emphasizing it lacks political motives. Prosecutors are probing Durov's platform for facilitating illicit activities.

Pavel Durov, the founder of messaging app Telegram, was arrested in France during an investigation into crimes linked to child pornography, drug trafficking, and fraudulent transactions, French prosecutors announced on Monday. President Emmanuel Macron reinforced this, stating there was no political motive involved, despite online speculations.

'The arrest was part of an ongoing judicial investigation,' Macron posted on X. Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau clarified that Durov's arrest relates to a broader cybercrime probe launched in July. Durov faces accusations of complicity in various crimes, including running a platform for illicit transactions and refusal to share information with authorities, money laundering, and offering cryptographic services to criminals. Durov could be held until Wednesday, the statement mentioned.

Criticism followed, notably from X owner Elon Musk, who argued Europe's free speech is at risk. Amid mounting Franco-Russian tensions, French authorities have accused Russia of destabilization efforts pre-Paris Olympics, allegations Russia denies. Durov, a billionaire with dual citizenship in France and the UAE, has consistently maintained that Telegram remains neutral in geopolitics, emphasizing compliance with European laws.

(With inputs from agencies.)