More than 100 Former Federal Prosecutors Urge for the Release of Detained Binance Executive in Nigeria
Amid escalating tensions, Nigeria remains unwavering in its legal pursuit of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, despite increasing pressure from US lawmakers and former officials. A group of around 100 former federal prosecutors and agents have joined forces, sending a letter to Secretary of State Tony Blinken urging action to secure Gambaryan’s release.
Gambaryan, a former federal agent turned mid-tier Binance employee, has been held in Nigeria under harsh conditions for approximately three months. He was detained on February 26, 2024, along with Binance’s Africa regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla, on allegations of illegal transaction profits. While Anjarwalla managed to escape custody in March, Gambaryan faces a $35 million indictment for money laundering and tax violations as part of Nigeria’s broader crackdown on cryptocurrency channels to curb currency speculation.
The plea for justice has gained momentum as more than 100 former federal prosecutors and agents have come forward to demand Gambaryan’s release. Led by former federal prosecutor Katie Haun, the letter to Secretary of State Tony Blinken underscores the urgency of Gambaryan’s situation. It highlights his deteriorating health due to lack of legal and medical support in Kuje Prison, known for housing Nigeria’s most dangerous criminals.
The letter also praises Gambaryan’s valuable contributions to significant investigations involving child pornography, national security, and terrorism financing. Former colleagues attest to his commitment to upholding the rule of law, recounting his unwavering dedication to major crime probes.
The plea for Gambaryan’s release has not gone unnoticed in the United States, with Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul and 15 other Members of Congress signing a letter to President Joe Biden, urging swift action to bring Gambaryan home.
On the contrary, Nigerian authorities stand firm, asserting that the charges against Gambaryan are legitimate and have followed due legal procedures. Nigerian Minister of Information Mohammed Idris maintains that the trial for illegal cryptocurrency trading involving Gambaryan and Binance has adhered to legal processes, with the next court hearing scheduled for June 20, 2024.