Telegram CEO Pavel Durov Returns to Dubai as French Criminal Investigation Continues

Durov, accused of complicity in criminal activities on Telegram, was permitted to leave France temporarily after months of judicial restrictions.

Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, has returned to Dubai after French authorities temporarily lifted his travel restrictions during an ongoing criminal investigation.
Durov was arrested in August 2024 in France over allegations that Telegram facilitated criminal activities, including child sexual abuse material and drug trafficking.
Following his arrest, Durov was released on bail, barred from leaving France, and required to check in with police regularly until recent modifications to his supervision conditions.
Telegram has implemented new moderation measures, including a partnership with the Internet Watch Foundation, to address criticism over its handling of illegal activities on the platform.
The investigation into Telegram's alleged complicity in criminal activities remains active, with Durov maintaining his innocence and emphasizing the platform's legal compliance.