Telegram CEO's brother also wanted by French authorities

French authorities have issued arrest warrants for Telegram CEO Pavel Durov and his brother Nikolai, co-founder of the messaging platform, as part of an investigation into Telegram's alleged non-cooperation with a police inquiry into child sex abuse. The warrants were issued in March, earlier than previously reported, and stem from Telegram's failure to respond to requests for user identification related to illicit activities. Pavel Durov was arrested at Le Bourget airport in Paris after arriving from Azerbaijan and has been indicted on six charges, including complicity in distributing pornographic images of minors. His arrest has sparked a diplomatic controversy, raising concerns about free speech and the responsibilities of social media platforms. Telegram has denied any wrongdoing, asserting compliance with European laws. The investigation, led by the Paris prosecutor's cybercrime unit, revealed that Telegram is used by various criminal groups, although there is no evidence implicating the Durov brothers in the illegal activities. Following the arrest, the value of Toncoin, a cryptocurrency associated with the Durovs, dropped significantly. The Kremlin has demanded evidence against Durov, while the UAE has sought consular access, which Durov has declined. The case has drawn international attention, with advocates for free speech expressing concern over the implications of the arrest.

- Arrest warrants for Pavel and Nikolai Durov were issued in March 2024.

- Pavel Durov was arrested in Paris and faces multiple charges related to child pornography.

- Telegram is under scrutiny for its lack of cooperation with French authorities.

- The arrest has raised concerns about free speech and social media accountability.

- The value of Toncoin dropped significantly following the news of the arrest.