Update on the Case of Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan in Nigeria 🌍
U.S. Representative Rich McCormick has recently introduced a bill to Congress with the intent of securing the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, who has been detained in Nigeria since February 2024. The bill, named “Urging the Government of Nigeria to immediately release Binance employee Tigran Gambaryan from imprisonment,” has been passed on to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs for further consideration.
The Allegations and Concerns 🚔
- Gambaryan is facing money laundering charges in Nigeria, while the tax evasion charges have been dismissed.
- Reports indicate that over 100 federal prosecutors and agents have urged the U.S. State Department to work towards securing Gambaryan’s release.
- Lawmakers who visited Gambaryan expressed worries about his health and the lack of proper medical care being provided.
- Binance has defended Gambaryan, emphasizing that he is not a key decision-maker within the organization, and has been advocating for his release.
The Case and the Actions Taken 🛡️
The accusations against Gambaryan and Binance involve alleged ties to money laundering activities in Nigeria, alongside claims that the cryptocurrency exchange was negatively impacting the local currency’s growth. The case has garnered significant attention from both the crypto community and U.S. lawmakers, with Rep. McCormick spearheading the efforts to address Gambaryan’s continued detention.
The bill presented by Rep. McCormick calls on the U.S. government to officially designate Gambaryan as a hostage, urging for his release if the situation remains unresolved by mid-July. The push for Gambaryan’s freedom extends beyond Congress, with federal prosecutors and agents also advocating for his release.
Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, has initiated a petition that has been gaining traction, nearing its target of 5,000 signatures. Concerns have been raised about Gambaryan’s well-being while in custody, with reports of his deteriorating health condition prompting further calls for action.
The Legal Standoff and Binance’s Position 🏛️
- Initially facing charges of tax evasion and money laundering, only the latter remains, with the EFCC continuing to pursue the case against Gambaryan.
- Gambaryan’s colleague, Nadeem Arjarwalla, escaped custody and is believed to have fled to Kenya, awaiting possible extradition back to Nigeria.
- Binance has reiterated that Gambaryan does not hold a pivotal role within the company and has been actively supporting his release, urging for the resolution of any disputes between Binance and Nigerian authorities without implicating Gambaryan.
Hot Take: Your Role in Advocating for Justice ⚖️
As a member of the crypto community, it’s essential to stay informed about cases like that of Tigran Gambaryan and use your voice to advocate for justice and fairness within the industry. Your support, whether through signing petitions, spreading awareness, or engaging in discussions, can make a meaningful difference in highlighting crucial issues and pushing for positive outcomes.
By
By
By