French Authority Charges Pavel Durov In Organized Criminal Investigation On Telegram

Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram instant messaging application (photo; x @manu_books)

JAKARTA - Pavel Durov, founder and CEO of Telegram's instant messaging app, was officially indicted by a French judge in an organized crime-related investigation that allegedly occurred through the platform. However, Durov was released on bail after paying 5 million euros (IDR 85.4 billion) and was required to report twice a week to the police and was banned from leaving the French territory.

Paris public prosecutor Laure Beccuau stated that the judge found sufficient evidence to continue his investigation into Durov over all charges that led to his arrest four days ago. The allegations include alleged involvement in the provision of platforms for illegal transactions, distribution of images of child abuse, drug trafficking, fraud, refusal to provide information to authorities, money laundering, and provision of encryption services to criminals.

Although formally charged, this status does not automatically mean Durov is guilty or will be tried. This investigation could take years before it is decided to proceed to court or be terminated.

Durov's arrest at an airport near Paris on Saturday night, August 24 has sparked debate over the boundaries between free speech and law enforcement. The case also highlights the complicated relationship between the government and Telegram, which currently have nearly 1 billion users, as well as a warning to other tech companies that refuse to cooperate with authorities over alleged illegality on their platforms.

Telegram has so far not commented much on Durov's arrest. In a statement on Monday, August 26, the company stated that it complies with EU law and that moderation on their platform is in "industrial standard and continues to be improved." Telegram also confirmed that Durov "has nothing to hide and travel frequently in Europe."

Durov's arrest also had a major diplomatic impact, exacerbating relations between Paris and Moscow. Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that relations between the two countries had reached their lowest point. The Kremlin said it was ready to provide assistance to Durov, but dual Durov citizenship (Russia and France) made this situation difficult.

Telegram has become an important platform in battlefield communications during the war in Ukraine and is being used by governments and soldiers from both sides to spread news and propaganda. While Telegram positions itself as a haven for freedom of speech, the platform is also widely used by right-wing movements, anti-vaccines, conspiracy, and political opposition groups.

French President Emmanuel Macron, known as Telegram's active user, confirmed that Durov's arrest was not a political decision and that France supported legal freedom of speech.