Update March 17, 1 pm UTC: This article has been revised to include details about the judicial suspension.
The founder of Telegram, Pavel Durov, stated that the company has consistently fulfilled and even surpassed its legal responsibilities concerning moderation, cooperation, and combating crime.
On March 17, Durov posted an update about the messaging platform, mentioning he had returned to Dubai after several months in France. He indicated that while the process is ongoing, it “feels great to be home.”
According to reports, French authorities have suspended Durov’s judicial oversight for three weeks. Sources from the French prosecutor’s office informed that this suspension is effective from March 15 until April 7.
This suspension signifies that any court hearings or legal matters involving Durov will be temporarily postponed. Additionally, it halts the enforcement of any court rulings and suspends any legal restrictions on the executive. Durov is likely expected to return to France following this pause.
Telegram founder asserts company has “exceeded” legal obligations
This update follows news that Durov was permitted to leave France and head home. On March 15, reports citing unnamed sources indicated that he had left France after receiving a court’s permission to depart.
Durov was detained in Paris on August 24 as part of an investigation related to the instant messaging app, facing allegations of enabling a platform that facilitated illegal activities.
Durov shared a message on Telegram after his return to Dubai. Source: Pavel Durov
In his message, Durov expressed gratitude to the judges for allowing his return to Dubai, as well as to his legal team and staff for their tireless efforts to demonstrate that the company had consistently exceeded its legal obligations regarding moderation, cooperation, and crime prevention. He stated:
“I want to extend my thanks to the investigative judges for facilitating this, and to my lawyers and team for their unwavering efforts in showing that, in terms of moderation, cooperation, and fighting crime, Telegram not only met but exceeded its legal obligations over the years.”
Durov also took a moment to thank his global supporters, expressing appreciation for their backing throughout the challenging situation. He noted, “There is nothing our billion-strong community can’t overcome.”
Related: The journey of Pavel Durov in the realms of free speech and online privacy.
Durov’s return to Dubai sparks Toncoin surge
The news of Durov’s release led to a rally in Toncoin, the cryptocurrency associated with The Open Network (TON), a project closely linked with Telegram. On March 15, Toncoin’s value rose from $2.93 to $3.46, achieving a weekly peak of $3.59 on March 17. As of this writing, the cryptocurrency is priced at $3.41, according to CoinGecko.
TON Society, a grassroots initiative supporting the TON blockchain, celebrated Durov’s release, stating they have stood behind him since his arrest while commending his dedication to free speech and transparency.
The group previously addressed an open letter to French authorities, advocating for Durov’s release.
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