Binance Defends Detained Exec amid Ongoing Talks with Nigerian Authorities

Crypto exchange Binance issued a statement on Wednesday, asserting that its detained Head of Financial Crime Compliance (FCC), Tigran Gambaryan, should not be held accountable amidst ongoing discussions with Nigerian government officials.

Detention of Binance Executives in Nigeria: Gambaryan Remains in Custody, Anjarwalla Reportedly Flees the Country

Nigerian authorities detained Tigran Gambaryan and Binance's Regional Manager for Africa, Nadeem Anjarwalla, in February after inviting them into the country. While Gambaryan remains in custody, Anjarwalla reportedly fled the country on March 25.

Binance Defends Gambaryan's Role Amidst Legal Proceedings, Highlights Collaborative Efforts with Nigerian Authorities

In a statement dated March 3, Binance emphasized that Gambaryan, being a strict law enforcement professional, holds no decision-making power within the company. The exchange urged Nigerian authorities not to hold Gambaryan responsible while discussions between Binance and Nigerian government officials are ongoing.

Binance highlighted Gambaryan's collaboration with Nigerian authorities, noting that his FCC team had previously assisted in over 600 information requests. This collaboration helped address various crimes, including fraud, money laundering, blackmail, kidnapping, and extortion. Additionally, Gambaryan's team conducted training sessions for Nigerian law enforcement officials on the role of exchanges in the digital asset ecosystem.

Tax Evasion Charges Override Human Rights Lawsuit: Gambaryan and Anjarwalla to Face Arraignment in Abuja

Despite Gambaryan and Anjarwalla filing a human rights violation lawsuit at the Federal High Court in Abuja, reports from local media outlets indicate that the two will face arraignment on April 4 over tax evasion charges.

In conclusion, Binance's defense of Gambaryan underscores the complexities surrounding the situation and the ongoing dialogue between the exchange and Nigerian authorities. The legal proceedings further highlight the challenges faced by both parties in resolving the matter.