Over 100 Federal Prosecutors Advocate 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, detained in Nigeria for alleged financial crimes, is facing deteriorating health conditions.
– The case has attracted significant political attention in the US, with calls for President Biden to intervene.
Amid escalating tensions, Nigeria remains resolute in its pursuit of legal action against Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, despite mounting pressure from US lawmakers and former officials. Approximately 100 former federal prosecutors and agents have come together to send a letter to Secretary of State Tony Blinken.
The letter, initially disclosed by Axios, urges immediate steps to secure Gambaryan’s release and underscores the growing diplomatic strain between the two countries. It stresses the critical need to address Gambaryan’s predicament.
Tigran Gambaryan’s Situation
Tigran Gambaryan, a former federal agent and current mid-level employee at Binance, has been in detention in Nigeria under harsh conditions for about three months. He and Binance’s Africa regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla were arrested on February 26, 2024, on allegations of profiting 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 forms part of Nigeria’s broader crackdown on currency speculation through the prohibition of cryptocurrency channels.
A Call for Justice
Former federal prosecutor Katie Haun spearheaded the letter, emphasizing Gambaryan’s deteriorating health due to the absence of legal and medical aid. The letter also points out that Kuje Prison, where Gambaryan is held, is notorious for housing some of Nigeria’s most dangerous criminals.
It highlights Gambaryan’s valuable contributions to significant investigations, including those related to child pornography, national security, and terrorism financing. Former colleagues have attested to his commitment to upholding the rule of law, sharing firsthand experiences of his relentless efforts in major crime probes.
US Political Pressure
The appeal for Gambaryan’s release has garnered substantial political attention in the US. Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul (R-TX) and 15 other Members of Congress have signed a letter to President Joe Biden, urging immediate action to bring Gambaryan back home.
Nigeria’s Position
Contrarily, Nigerian authorities maintain that the charges against Gambaryan are legitimate and have followed due legal processes. Nigerian Minister of Information Mohammed Idris stated that the trial concerning illegal cryptocurrency trading involving Gambaryan and Binance has adhered to legal protocols.
He affirmed that the evidence supports the prosecution’s case, with the next court hearing scheduled for June 20, 2024.
As the upcoming court hearing approaches, all eyes are on Nigeria. How will this international standoff be resolved?