Over 100 Federal Prosecutors Call for Release of Binance Executive Gambaryan in Nigeria
Key Points
– Nigeria is standing firm in its legal actions against Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, despite pressure from US officials.
– Gambaryan, currently detained in Nigeria under tough conditions for alleged financial crimes, is facing deteriorating health.
– The case has garnered significant political attention in the US, with calls for President Biden to intervene.
In the midst of escalating tensions, Nigeria remains resolute in its pursuit of justice against Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, despite mounting pressure from US lawmakers and former officials. A group of around 100 former federal prosecutors and agents have joined forces to send a letter to Secretary of State Tony Blinken, urging immediate action.
The letter, initially reported by Axios, underscores the growing diplomatic strain between the two countries and emphasizes the urgent need to address Gambaryan’s situation.
The Story of Tigran Gambaryan
Tigran Gambaryan, a former federal agent and current mid-level employee at Binance, has been held in Nigeria for approximately three months under harsh conditions. He, along with Binance’s Africa regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla, was apprehended on February 26, 2024, on charges of benefiting from illicit transactions. While Anjarwalla managed to escape custody in March, Gambaryan is facing a $35 million indictment for money laundering and tax violations. This is part of Nigeria’s broader crackdown on cryptocurrency channels to combat currency speculation.
A Call for Justice
Former federal prosecutor Katie Haun spearheaded the letter, highlighting Gambaryan’s deteriorating health due to a lack of legal and medical assistance. The letter also points out that Kuje Prison, where Gambaryan is incarcerated, is notorious for housing some of Nigeria’s most dangerous criminals.
It underscores Gambaryan’s pivotal role in significant investigations, including those related to child pornography, national security, and terrorism financing. Former colleagues have testified to his unwavering commitment to upholding the rule of law, citing firsthand experiences of his relentless efforts in major crime probes.
Political Pressure in the US
The plea for Gambaryan’s release has garnered substantial political attention in the United States. Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul (R-TX) and 15 other Members of Congress penned a letter to President Joe Biden, urging immediate action to bring Gambaryan back home.
Nigeria’s Position
On the flip side, Nigerian authorities maintain that the charges against Gambaryan are legitimate and have followed due legal processes. Nigerian Minister of Information Mohammed Idris affirmed that the trial for illegal cryptocurrency trading involving Gambaryan and Binance has adhered to legal procedures.
He asserted that the evidence supports the prosecution’s case, with the next court hearing scheduled for June 20, 2024.
As the upcoming court hearing looms, all eyes are on Nigeria. How will this international standoff be resolved?