French Authorities Hand Telegram Co-Founder Over to Court

Telegram founder Pavel Durov was released from police custody in France on Wednesday and transferred to court for questioning in a case that prosecutors say could lead to criminal charges.

Durov had been detained on suspicions that Telegram facilitated crimes such as fraud, drug trafficking, and the distribution of child pornography. The platform has also been criticized for being used by terrorist groups and far-right extremists due to its minimal oversight.

Durov was held for up to 96 hours, the maximum time allowed under French law before charges must be filed. His detention has sparked a broader debate about free speech, particularly in Ukraine and Russia, where Telegram is heavily used, especially during the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine.

French President Emmanuel Macron responded to the criticism surrounding Durov’s arrest by emphasizing that the charges were not politically motivated. This statement from Macron is noteworthy, as it is uncommon for the French president to directly address such legal matters.