A newly surfaced video has highlighted the harsh conditions faced by Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of crime compliance, who is imprisoned in Nigeria. The footage has intensified calls for his release as concerns over his deteriorating health grow.
Gambaryan’s Court Appearance and Treatment
Tigran Gambaryan, who appeared in court on September 2, is facing detention over alleged financial crimes linked to Binance’s Nigerian operations involving $34 million. Following his court appearance, a troubling video emerged, showing Gambaryan in distress and prompting Binance CEO Richard Teng to call for his immediate release.
In a September 3 post on X, Teng condemned the treatment of Gambaryan, stating:
“This inhumane treatment of Tigran must end. He must be allowed to go home for medical treatment and to be with his family.”
The video has reignited calls for Gambaryan’s release after more than six months in detention. During the trial, Gambaryan’s lawyer submitted a new bail motion, citing his deteriorating health. However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed the motion, arguing that Gambaryan’s health was not as dire as claimed. Despite this, medical records indicate he requires surgery.
Read more: International Outcry as Binance Employee Tigran Gambaryan Faces Deteriorating Health in Nigerian Prison
The next court hearing is scheduled for September 4, where the judge will consider the bail motion further.
Gambarian's health has deteriorated significantly during his detention
Reports indicate that Gambaryan’s health has significantly declined while in custody, attributed to alleged medical neglect. His family expressed concern, stating:
“He is no longer able to walk from the pain of his untreated herniated disc or spinal injury. The prison is also refusing to provide him with a wheelchair.”
Read more: Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan’s condition has deteriorated again. The Biden administration’s failure to participate in the incident will result in Gambaryan being detained until after October
The video shows Gambaryan struggling to walk and pleading with a guard for a wheelchair, but his requests are ignored, and he is seen using only a crutch.
The situation underscores significant concerns regarding the treatment of detainees and access to medical care. The ongoing detention and health deterioration of Gambaryan highlight broader issues in the handling of high-profile cases and the treatment of individuals in custody.