Telegram founder Pavel Durov has been released from French police custody and moved to court for additional questioning following his recent arrest at a Paris airport, according to CNN.
The Paris prosecutor’s office revealed that Durov will undergo preliminary questioning, with potential charges looming, though being under formal investigation in France does not automatically suggest guilt or guarantee a trial. This step indicates that judges believe there is sufficient evidence to continue the investigation.
Telegram responded earlier this week, asserting compliance with European Union
French law permits a detention period of up to 96 hours—or four days—before charges must be filed, as reported by Reuters. Durov’s arrest on August 24 stems from accusations that Telegram has facilitated illegal activities, including drug trafficking and the sharing of child exploitation materials.
Durov is currently facing 12 criminal charges, among them aiding in the operation of an illegal online platform, refusing cooperation with authorities, and involvement in child pornography distribution. French officials have also charged him with complicity in drug-related crimes, enabling cyberattacks, participation in organized fraud schemes, criminal conspiracy, and money laundering.
Telegram responded earlier this week, asserting compliance with European Union (EU) regulations and stating that its moderation practices meet industry standards and are continuously improving. The company also defended Durov, emphasizing that he frequently travels in Europe and asserting that blaming a platform or its owner for misuse is unreasonable.
