The founder of the messaging platform Telegram, Pavel Durov, has left France for Dubai following the temporary suspension of his judicial supervision obligations. According to information confirmed by the Paris prosecutor's office to franceinfo, his obligations have been lifted between March 15 and April 7.
A Judicial Decision Allowing Him to Travel
Pavel Durov, a Franco-Russian national, had been under judicial supervision since his indictment last August for 16 offenses, including "complicity in administering an online platform to facilitate an illicit transaction, in an organized group," "refusal to provide authorities with necessary information for conducting legally authorized interceptions," and "money laundering of crimes or offenses in an organized group."
As part of this indictment, he was required to comply with several conditions, including a bail payment of five million euros, the obligation to report to the police station twice a week, and a ban on leaving French territory. The investigating judge’s decision to temporarily suspend these obligations allowed him to leave France and travel to Dubai, where his company Telegram is based.
A Welcome Return to Dubai
On Monday, March 17, Pavel Durov reacted to this travel authorization by expressing his satisfaction. "Happy to be back in Dubai," he stated, thanking the investigating judge for this decision and acknowledging the work of his lawyers and team. He also emphasized Telegram’s efforts in moderation, cooperation with authorities, and crime prevention, asserting that the platform "has, for years, not only met but exceeded its legal obligations."
An Ongoing Investigation
While this temporary suspension allows him to travel, the investigation remains ongoing. French authorities continue their inquiries into the allegations against Pavel Durov and his platform. It has not been indicated whether this suspension of judicial supervision could be extended or if he will be required to return to France at the end of the specified period.
Pavel Durov’s situation and the judicial implications for Telegram will continue to be closely monitored by authorities and digital industry observers.
