An executive of Binance named Tigran Gambaryan, who has been held in custody in Nigeria since February, is facing more uncertainty after a judge postponed his bail hearing until October 9. Gambaryan, who has spent over six months in detention and is reportedly facing health issues, is encountering another setback in his case.
Gambaryan, the head of financial crime compliance at Binance, was initially accused of tax evasion and money laundering. However, the tax evasion charges were eventually dropped, leaving only the money laundering allegations. Despite his extended detention, Gambaryan’s family and supporters are persistently advocating for his release.
A recent video circulating on social media depicted Gambaryan experiencing difficulty walking to the courtroom during a court appearance on September 2, receiving no assistance from guards. This has raised concerns about his well-being and the circumstances of his confinement.
Gambaryan’s family, including his wife Yuki, have expressed worries about his deteriorating health, underscoring the need for immediate action to ensure his safety and freedom. The delay in the bail hearing has heightened their anxieties, leaving Gambaryan facing more uncertainty and potential health risks.
The bail hearing on October 9 will be a significant juncture in Gambaryan’s case, with his supporters closely monitoring any developments. As events continue to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Gambaryan will be granted bail and permitted to receive the necessary medical attention.
Former IRS Agent Tigran Gambaryan, a US Citizen, Seeks Bail Over Health Concerns
Tigran Gambaryan, a US citizen and former IRS special agent, has been detained in Nigeria for over six months. His legal representatives have filed a bail motion, citing inadequate care and treatment for his reported health issues in the Nigerian prison. Gambaryan’s situation has attracted widespread attention, with legislators and leaders in the crypto industry demanding his immediate release, alleging his unjust imprisonment.
Gambaryan’s wife has initiated a petition to bring him back to the US, which has garnered more than 5,400 signatures. This case underscores the increasing trend of authorities targeting prominent figures associated with technology and crypto companies. Recently, French authorities arrested Telegram CEO Pavel Durov on charges related to money laundering and offering cryptology services.
Nadeem Anjarwalla, another executive from Binance detained in Nigeria alongside Gambaryan, managed to flee to Kenya and now faces potential extradition back to Nigeria to face charges. Even though Nigeria’s tax authority dropped charges against Anjarwalla and Gambaryan in June, they could still be summoned to court for money laundering accusations.
Gambaryan’s detention has sparked concerns about his welfare, with reports indicating his struggles to walk to the court during a recent appearance. His family and supporters persist in advocating for his release, stressing the urgency of ensuring his well-being and access to medical care. As developments continue to unfold, it remains to be seen whether Gambaryan will be granted bail and allowed to return to the US.
