Official statements from French authorities and news reports

Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Charged in France Over Child Abuse Material, Platform Crimes

Aug 30, 2024, 10:12 AM

Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, was arrested in France and charged with several offenses, including complicity in the spread of child sexual abuse material. French authorities have accused Durov of allowing criminal activity on the messaging platform and have charged him in connection with an organized crime probe. The arrest has sparked a global debate about the balance between free speech and platform responsibility. Durov has been released on €5 million bail but is barred from leaving France. French President Emmanuel Macron stated he was unaware of Durov's arrival and did not plan to meet him. The Kremlin has cautioned France against turning the case into political persecution.