France has extended the detention of Pavel Durov

The French government has extended the detention of Telegram founder Pavel Durov to 96 hours (4 days). Durov is suspected of crimes such as fraud, drug trafficking, cyberbullying, organized crime and terrorist propaganda. Telegram has denied these allegations.

The French government has extended the detention of Telegram founder Pavel Durov, AFP reports. Initial detention for questioning can last up to 96 hours. At the end of this period, the judge can release him or issue an indictment and decide to extend the prison term.

An AFP source said the French Ministry of Justice (OFMIN) issued an arrest warrant for Durov as part of a preliminary investigation into crimes including fraud, drug trafficking, cyberbullying, organized crime and terrorist propaganda. Durov is accused of not taking measures to suppress criminal use of his platform.

Telegram said that Durov has nothing to hide and that he often travels around Europe.

"Telegram complies with EU laws, including the Digital Services Act, and its moderation meets industry standards," Telegram added. "It is absurd to claim that the platform or its owner is responsible for abuses on the platform . "

It should be noted that French intelligence services arrested Telegram founder Pavel Durov at Paris Le Bourget airport on Sunday. According to French TV channel TF1, Durov was arrested as he exited his private Embraer Legacy 600 jet, and faces up to 20 years in prison. Durov will be tried as a French citizen.