Kelvin Daminabo
Recent developments show that the Federal Inland Revenue Service (FIRS) of Nigeria has dropped tax charges against Binance executives Tigran Gambaryan and Nadeem Anjarwalla. They will now focus on the money laundering case, with the next court hearing set for June 19.
The FIRS has agreed to revise the charges, naming only Binance, through its local representative, as the defendant. Gambaryan, who is currently unwell, is no longer required to appear in court for the FIRS case. Despite this, Gambaryan and Anjarwalla are still implicated in the money laundering case, with the trial resuming on June 20.
Binance has been lobbying for Gambaryan’s release, emphasizing that he lacks decision-making authority at the company and should not be held liable. The firm maintains that Gambaryan oversees financial crime compliance while Anjarwalla was a director for Africa operations.
The legal issues started in February when Gambaryan and Anjarwalla were detained in Nigeria regarding Binance’s operations. Anjarwalla managed to escape shortly after, while Gambaryan remains in detention at Kuje prison.
The family spokesperson appreciates the dropping of tax charges, indicating that it proves Gambaryan and Anjarwalla are not decision-makers at Binance and should not have been detained or charged. There is hope for a positive outcome in the money laundering case due to the executives’ cooperation with authorities.
While Binance continues to address the legal matters and ensure compliance with Nigerian regulations, the outcome of the money laundering case against Gambaryan and Anjarwalla could significantly impact the company’s operations in Nigeria and the broader cryptocurrency sector in Africa.
Critical Health Concerns
Health conditions of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan have worsened due to neglect by prison authorities. Despite a court order, it took 11 days for him to receive minimal medical attention, with no results communicated to his family. Gambaryan, an American citizen, collapsed in court on May 23 due to malaria and has since developed pneumonia.
Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, urgently urges the US government to step in and secure his immediate release. She stresses the urgency as his health deteriorates.
The lack of response from the FIRS and the Supreme Court of Nigeria is concerning, and the international community is closely monitoring the situation. Gambaryan’s detention and health neglect are violations of his human rights and endanger his life.
The US government needs to act promptly to ensure Gambaryan’s safe release and access to proper medical treatment. The international community urges Nigeria to uphold human rights, due process, and prioritize Gambaryan’s well-being. Time is critical, and swift action is essential to safeguard his life.