Telegram founder detained in France for alleged criminal ties

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, an online messenger that allows sending encrypted messages, was detained on Saturday evening at Paris's Le Bourget airport. French authorities wanted the Russian national for allegedly supporting criminal activities.

Durov, accused of not cooperating with law enforcement regarding Telegram's operations—which are reportedly being used by criminals—flew to Paris from Azerbaijan and was detained at Le Bourget airport in France.

Durov holds a French passport, and the 39-year-old is the focus of an investigation in France. He is suspected of supporting illegal activities.

The Telegram platform he created has become a tool for organized crime. On Sunday, Durow may face charges related to various crimes, including terrorism, drug trafficking, fraud, money laundering, and distribution of pedophilic content.

After the charges are presented, Durow is expected to be temporarily detained. According to the French agency TF1, the accusations against him include allowing numerous offenses and crimes to be committed on his platform, for which he failed to take action. He also did not cooperate with law enforcement authorities.

According to PAP, French media are surprised that Durow, who was aware of the possibility of detention, chose to appear in France. Until now, he has avoided traveling to France, instead visiting the United Arab Emirates, former USSR countries, and South American nations.

Durow created the Telegram app 11 years ago. Previously, he attempted to launch a "Russian Facebook," but his efforts were thwarted by Vladimir Putin's allies. He then left Russia and obtained citizenship of Saint Kitts and Nevis.

His company, Telegram Group Inc., is registered in the British Virgin Islands. The mobile app is issued by Telegram FZ-LLC, a company registered in the United Arab Emirates. According to Forbes, Durow's wealth is estimated at $15.1 billion.