U.S. Legislators Demand Action for Detained Binance Executive
A group of U.S. lawmakers, led by House Foreign Affairs Committee Chair Michael McCaul (R-Texas) and 11 other congressional leaders, has urged President Joe Biden to intervene in the case of Tigran Gambaryan, a high-ranking executive at Binance, who has been held in Nigeria for almost three months.
Lawmakers’ Criticism of Nigerian Government
The legislators stated in their letter that the Nigerian government has openly acknowledged using Gambaryan as a bargaining chip against Binance. They highlighted that his legal team faced constraints, with government officials and armed personnel monitoring their meetings.
- The Nigerian government has openly admitted using Gambaryan as leverage against Binance.
- Gambaryan’s legal representation faced restrictions, with government monitoring.
Deteriorating Health and Lack of Medical Treatment
Gambaryan’s health has worsened during his detention, leading to his collapse in court on May 24 and a subsequent malaria diagnosis. Despite a court order for proper medical care, Nigerian authorities have failed to provide adequate healthcare.
- Gambaryan’s health deteriorated, resulting in a collapse in court and malaria diagnosis.
- Nigerian authorities have not provided adequate medical treatment as ordered by the court.
Charges and Allegations Against Gambaryan and Binance
Gambaryan and Binance are facing allegations of money laundering and tax evasion by Nigerian authorities. Another Binance executive, Nadeem Anjarwalla, who was also detained, managed to escape.
- Gambaryan and Binance are accused of money laundering and tax evasion.
- Nadeem Anjarwalla, another Binance executive, escaped detention.
Detention Following Hostile Meetings
The lawmakers noted that Gambaryan’s trip to Nigeria on February 26, initially for discussions on Binance’s compliance, turned hostile, resulting in his detention by Nigerian authorities. He was confined, had his passport seized, and was moved to a government-owned residence.
- Initial discussions turned hostile, leading to Gambaryan’s detention.
- Gambaryan was confined, had his passport seized, and was moved to a government residence.
Detention in Harsh Conditions
After being held without communication for five days, Gambaryan was charged with crimes related to Binance and transferred to Kuje Prison, known for its severe conditions. Despite being a U.S. citizen and former IRS special agent, his situation remains precarious.
- Gambaryan was charged and transferred to Kuje Prison, known for its harsh conditions.
- Despite his background and nationality, Gambaryan’s situation continues to be concerning.
Urgency for U.S. Involvement
The legislators emphasized the urgency of the situation, highlighting the need for U.S. intervention to secure Gambaryan’s release. They characterized his detention as wrongful under U.S. laws on hostage recovery and accountability.
- Legislators stress the urgent need for U.S. intervention to secure Gambaryan’s release.
- They argue that his detention falls under U.S. laws on hostage recovery and accountability.
Closing Thoughts on International Relations
As the case of Tigran Gambaryan unfolds, it sheds light on the complexities of international relations and the challenges faced by individuals caught in diplomatic disputes. The role of governments in safeguarding the rights and well-being of their citizens, particularly in cases of detainment or coercion, remains a critical issue in today’s interconnected world.
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