Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Arrested at Paris Airport

Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, was detained at Le Bourget airport near Paris, stirring reactions from Moscow demanding his rights. The arrest, based on an alleged French warrant, involves an investigation led by cybersecurity and anti-fraud police units. No official French confirmation has been provided.

Pavel Durov, the Russian-born billionaire founder of the Telegram messaging app, was detained at Le Bourget airport outside Paris. Sources revealed he was taken into custody shortly after his private jet landed on Saturday evening.

The arrest prompted Moscow to issue a warning to Paris, emphasizing that Durov should be accorded his rights. X owner Elon Musk criticized the move, stating that free speech in Europe is under threat. French authorities have yet to officially confirm the arrest.

Durov, who holds dual French and UAE citizenship, faces an ongoing preliminary investigation related to his platform's moderation policies. The case is led by France's cybersecurity gendarmerie and national anti-fraud units, and may lead to further legal action.

(With inputs from agencies.)