Telegram founder Pavel Durov has been released after paying a 5 million euro bail, but cannot leave France until the official investigation is completed

French authorities have launched a formal investigation into Telegram founder Pavel Durov, who has been detained and interrogated by French law enforcement since his arrest over the weekend.

He appeared before an investigating judge at a Paris court on Wednesday evening. The magistrate filed six preliminary criminal charges against Durov for allegedly allowing criminal activity to be carried out on the app.

Pavel Durov paid a bail of 5 million euros to avoid jail, but he is prohibited from leaving France and will continue to undergo judicial supervision and is required to report to the police twice a week.

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Pavel Durov could face ten years in prison

The French National Office for Minors has highlighted Telegram's insufficient response to court requests concerning severe crimes such as trafficking and online hate speech.

The charges listed in the indictment include conspiracy to provide a platform for the distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), drug trafficking, fraud and illegal transactions, and refusing to cooperate with law enforcement agencies requesting data and documents as part of a criminal investigation.

If convicted, Pavel Durov could face up to 10 years in prison, according to Paris prosecutor Laure Beccuau.

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Russia condemns Pavel Durov's arrest

Durov’s recent arrest has raised concerns over freedom of speech, particularly in Russia and Ukraine. Telegram, widely used in both countries, plays a crucial role in communication amid the ongoing conflict. Russian officials have criticised France's actions, accusing Paris of undermining free expression.

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Russia’s Foreign Ministry condemned the detention, claiming it demonstrates France's disregard for international norms regarding freedom of speech. The Kremlin has attempted to reassure Telegram users in Russia, advising against panic and discouraging the deletion of sensitive messages.