France extends detention of Telegram founder Durov as company denies wrongdoing

French authorities have extended the detention of Pavel Durov, the Russian-born founder of Telegram, following his unexpected arrest at Paris’ Le Bourget airport on Saturday night. Durov’s arrest has generated significant online backlash from free speech advocates, including Elon Musk, who have accused French authorities of censorship.

Durov, whose private jet was seized upon arrival, is under investigation for alleged involvement in fraud, drug trafficking, organised crime, terrorism promotion, and cyber-bullying on Telegram, a messaging platform known for its emphasis on privacy and free speech.

In response, Telegram released a statement denying any misconduct, asserting compliance with EU laws, and criticising claims that the platform or its founder could be held accountable for its misuse.

“Telegram’s CEO Pavel Durov has nothing to hide and travels frequently in Europe,” it said. “It is absurd to claim that a platform or its owner are responsible for abuse of that platform.”

#FreePavel
pic.twitter.com/B7AcJWswMs

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) August 25, 2024

READ: Israel army admits to running snuff psyop channel on Telegram 

French judicial authorities have prolonged Durov’s detention beyond the standard period, according to reports from Le Monde. Under French law, the initial questioning can last up to 96 hours, after which the judge must decide whether to release him or pursue charges.

Meanwhile, the Russian embassy in Paris has demanded access to Durov, who also holds French and UAE citizenship, but has accused French officials of non-cooperation.

Durov’s arrest comes amid the ongoing Gaza war, where both Palestinian and other regional resistance factions and Israel are utilising Telegram for communication and propaganda. Additionally, the app serves as a critical source of information for the war between Ukraine and Russia.