Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, a French-Emirati citizen, was arrested in Paris on allegations of child pornography and drug trafficking. The UAE has called for his immediate release.
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| The UAE has called for the immediate release of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, who was arrested in France on allegations of child pornography and drug trafficking. The arrest has sparked international outrage. Image: Collected |
Abu Dhabi, UAE – August 27, 2024:
The United Arab Emirates has formally requested that the French government grant consular access to Pavel Durov, the CEO of the popular messaging app Telegram. Durov, a Russian-born French-Emirati citizen, was arrested in Paris over the weekend on allegations related to child pornography, drug trafficking, and organized crime.
The arrest has sparked international outrage, with critics arguing that it could have political implications. Elon Musk, a vocal advocate for free speech, has condemned the detention, while French President Emmanuel Macron has insisted that the decision was not politically motivated.
Telegram, which boasts over a billion users worldwide, has become a popular communication tool for a diverse range of individuals, from political dissidents to criminals. The app's encrypted messaging feature has made it a favorite among those seeking privacy and anonymity.
Durov's arrest has raised concerns about the potential impact on Telegram's operations and the privacy of its users. Some fear that the case could lead to increased surveillance of the app or even restrictions on its use in certain countries.
The UAE's request for consular access comes amid growing tensions between the two countries. The UAE has been critical of France's foreign policy in the Middle East, particularly its support for the Kurdish-led Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria.
In addition to the UAE, several other countries have expressed concern about Durov's arrest. Human rights groups have called for his immediate release and the dropping of the charges against him.
The case of Pavel Durov has highlighted the complex challenges of regulating the internet in the age of global communication. While governments have a legitimate interest in protecting their citizens from harm, they must also be careful not to infringe on fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and privacy.