Over 100 exFederal Prosecutors urge the release of detained Binance Executive in Nigeria
Amidst escalating tensions, Nigeria continues to move forward with its legal case against Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, despite facing increasing 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 action to secure Gambaryan’s release. This letter, initially reported by Axios, underscores the strained diplomatic relations between the two countries.
Gambaryan, a former federal agent turned mid-tier employee at Binance, has been held in Nigeria for approximately three months under harsh conditions. Alongside Binance’s Africa regional manager Nadeem Anjarwalla, Gambaryan was arrested on February 26, 2024, on charges of illegal profit from transactions. While Anjarwalla managed to escape custody in March, Gambaryan is facing a $35 million indictment for money laundering and tax violations. This crackdown is part of Nigeria’s broader efforts to crack down on currency speculation by banning cryptocurrency channels.
A recent plea for justice has emerged from over 100 former federal prosecutors and agents, advocating for the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan. In a letter addressed to Secretary of State Tony Blinken, led by former federal prosecutor Katie Haun, concerns were raised about Gambaryan’s deteriorating health due to lack of legal and medical assistance. The letter sheds light on the harsh conditions at Kuje Prison, where he is being held, known for housing dangerous criminals in Nigeria.
The letter also acknowledges Gambaryan’s significant contributions to various 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, recounting firsthand experiences of his unwavering dedication to major crime investigations.
The push for Gambaryan’s release has attracted political attention in the US, with Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee Michael McCaul (R-TX) and 15 other Members of Congress signing a letter to President Joe Biden, urging swift action to bring Gambaryan back home.
On the flip side, Nigerian authorities stand by the legitimacy of the charges against Gambaryan and assert that due legal processes have been followed in his trial for illegal cryptocurrency trading involving Binance. Nigerian Minister of Information Mohammed Idris emphasized that the evidence supports the prosecution’s case, with the next court hearing scheduled for June 20, 2024.