U.S. Politicians Advocate for Binance Executive's Return from Nigeria

Several United States politicians have appealed to President Joe Biden and the hostage affairs unit to intervene in the case of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance employee detained in Nigeria for over three months on charges of money laundering and tax evasion.

In a letter dated June 4 and addressed to President Biden, Secretary Antony Blinken, and Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger D. Carstens, 12 politicians emphasized Gambaryan's "wrongful detention" by the Nigerian government and urged immediate action to ensure his safety.

Source: Eleanor Terrett

The politicians expressed concerns about Gambaryan's well-being, emphasizing the need for swift action to secure his release. They specifically requested the involvement of the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs in handling Gambaryan's case.

Gambaryan, Binance's head of financial crime compliance, traveled to Nigeria on February 26 at the government's invitation to address compliance issues. However, after two meetings, Gambaryan was detained by Nigerian authorities following what was described as increasingly hostile interactions.

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Currently held in Kuje Prison, known for its harsh conditions, Gambaryan has tested positive for malaria. Despite a court order for his transfer to a private hospital for treatment, this has not been executed.

Denied bail on May 18, Gambaryan failed to appear in a scheduled court hearing on May 22. When he eventually appeared in court, his physical state had significantly deteriorated, with reports indicating he collapsed when asked to stand by the judge.

The politicians also raised concerns about Gambaryan's limited access to legal counsel, as meetings with his legal team require the presence of Nigerian authorities and armed guards.

Before joining Binance, Gambaryan served as a federal agent at the Internal Revenue Service for ten years.