Telegram CEO Free After Paying IDR 85 Billion, But Must Still Report

JAKARTA - French justices filed initial charges against Telegram founder Pavel Durov over a number of crimes, including involvement in the spread of child pornography, illegal drugs, and software hacking on its platform.

Based on a report from The Wall Street Journal, Durov, who was arrested at French airport on Saturday, was finally released from police custody after paying a bail of 5 million euros or IDR 85.7 billion.

However, for the time being Durov will have to live in France, under court supervision. In addition, the 39-year-old man is also required to report to the police station every two weeks, during the investigation.

At different times, prosecutor Laure Beccuau, the case underscores allegations that Telegram failed to moderate content and did not cooperate with authorities, particularly in fighting the spread of child pornography and the use of platforms for crimes such as drug trafficking and money laundering.

There has been no further response from the messaging company. However, in his previous statement, Telegram said that Durov's arrest was unreasonable.

"It makes no sense to claim that a platform or its owner is responsible for the abuse of the platform," the company wrote.