I have nothing to hide – Telegram CEO

Pavel Durov, the Russian-born founder of Telegram, had his detention extended by French authorities on Sunday following his arrest at Le Bourget airport in Paris. Durov’s arrest on Saturday, linked to alleged offenses related to the messaging app, represents a dramatic development in the career of this prominent tech figure, as reported by The Guardian.

According to a source close to the investigation, the investigating magistrate has extended Durov’s detention beyond Sunday night. This initial detention period, which can last up to 96 hours, is designated for questioning. After this period, the judge will decide whether to release Durov or to file charges and continue his detention.

French authorities had issued an arrest warrant for Durov as part of an investigation into various allegations, including fraud, drug trafficking, organized crime, terrorism promotion, and cyberbullying. Durov is accused of failing to prevent criminal activities on his platform and was detained upon arriving in Paris from Baku on his private jet Saturday night. An investigator commented, “Enough of Telegram’s impunity,” noting surprise that Durov traveled to Paris despite being aware of the arrest warrant.

In a statement on Sunday evening, Telegram asserted: “Telegram complies with EU laws, including the Digital Services Act – its moderation practices meet industry standards and are continually improving.

“Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov has nothing to hide and travels frequently within Europe. It is absurd to suggest that the platform or its owner is responsible for misuse. We are hoping for a swift resolution of this matter.”