Binance CEO Urges Nigerian Government to Release Detained

Richard Teng, Binance's CEO, has called on the Nigerian government to release Tigran Gambaryan, an American employee of the cryptocurrency exchange.

Gambaryan, who heads Binance’s financial crime compliance division, has been detained in Nigeria since February.

"He needs medical treatment before his conditions become permanent," Teng said during an interview. "Our priority is really to get him home safely."

Initially held under house arrest without explanation, Gambaryan was later transferred to Kuje prison and charged with money laundering.

Health Concerns and Legal Challenges

Gambaryan's health has rapidly deteriorated during his detention, with reports indicating that he has contracted malaria, leading to severe complications including double pneumonia and a herniated disc.

Despite court orders, prison authorities have reportedly denied him medical treatment and access to his medical records. He has pleaded not guilty to the money laundering charges.

Industry Response

The case has garnered attention within the crypto community and beyond. Calls for Gambaryan’s release have come from various quarters, including former federal prosecutors and members of the U.S. Congress.

There is pressure on the U.S. government to intervene, although no public statement has been made by officials.

The U.S. government has made no public statement on Gambaryan's situation.