France extends Pavel Durov's arrest: Telegram CEO may remain in custody for up to 96 hours without formal charges

Telegram co-founder and CEO Pavel Durov was arrested in France over the weekend and his detention has been extended. French authorities, in particular OFMIN (the Office for the Protection of Minors), detained Durov at Le Bourget airport near Paris.

Here's What We Know

His arrest is related to allegations of insufficient control over illegal activities on the Telegram platform, including child exploitation, drug trafficking, cyberbullying and terrorism.

Telegram responded by saying that the allegations were "absurd". The company said that the platform cannot be held responsible for the abuse of users. In a statement, they emphasise that they comply with EU standards, including the Digital Services Act, and are constantly improving moderation.

Anonymous sources say that France can hold Durov in custody for up to 96 hours without filing formal charges. This is in line with French law, which allows for detention to be extended without charges if the investigation requires more time.

Telegram is known to be popular among criminals due to its anonymity, but it is also an important tool for activists and journalists in countries with authoritarian regimes. Pavel Durov argues that the platform should remain neutral and should not interfere with content.

Durov, who holds French nationality, is currently in custody in France. If charges are not brought within 96 hours, he should be released. He currently resides in Dubai, where Telegram is based. If French law enforcement authorities do not file formal charges against Pavel Durov within the allotted time, he will have the right to remain in France, where he can live without any restrictions.

Source: Yahoo News