- Crypto exchange giant Binance is actively advocating for the release of its detained executive, Tigran Gambaryan, urging global entities to pressure the U.S. government regarding his humanitarian plight.
- Gambaryan has endured six months of confinement in Nigeria, with his health reportedly in severe decline, prompting Binance CEO Richard Teng to escalate the demand for his release.
- Teng emphasized the lack of medical support and legal representation Gambaryan has faced, underscoring the violation of his basic human rights amidst unfounded allegations against Binance.
This article explores the ongoing detention of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, highlighting the company’s response, the legal ramifications, and the humanitarian concerns raised by his family.
Binance Executive’s Deteriorating Condition Sparks Outcry
Tigran Gambaryan, who serves as Binance’s Head of Financial Compliance, was detained by Nigerian authorities upon his arrival in Abuja on February 26. Since then, he has faced serious accusations, including money laundering and tax violations, with a total indictment amounting to $35 million. Notably, many of the criminal charges against his colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla, were dismissed, yet Gambaryan remains behind bars.
Legal Developments and Human Rights Violations
The ongoing legal struggles have intensified following a lawsuit filed by Gambaryan against Nigeria’s National Security Adviser and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. Filed in March, the suit targeted alleged violations of his human rights, which included a lack of access to necessary medical care and legal representation. In a recently issued statement, Teng disclosed that Gambaryan’s health has severely declined, leaving him unable to walk and without proper medical assistance.
U.S. Lawmakers Demand Action
This troubling situation has prompted intervention from U.S. lawmakers, with representatives French Hill and Chrissy Houlahan visiting Gambaryan in June. Their interactions revealed alarming details about his health, with reports indicating suffering from both malaria and pneumonia. The legislators called for his immediate release, labeling the Nigerian government’s assertions of providing adequate healthcare as untrue.
Family’s Plea and Continued Advocacy
Yuki Gambaryan, Tigran’s wife, voiced her desperate calls for action, expressing fears that her husband’s condition could lead to irreversible damage. Her heartfelt appeal was made public on the six-month anniversary of his detention, highlighting the emotional and physical toll that prolonged confinement is inflicting on Gambaryan. She elaborated on the family’s continuous efforts to secure his release, which have gone largely unacknowledged, and criticized the obstacles placed in front of his legal representation by the Nigerian government.
Conclusion
The case of Tigran Gambaryan serves as a stark reminder of the broader implications of regulatory crackdowns on cryptocurrency enterprises and their executives. As this narrative unfolds, the necessity for effective international diplomatic channels and the importance of safeguarding the rights of innocent individuals becomes increasingly clear. The Binance community and policymakers must remain vigilant in advocating for justice and the preservation of human rights.
