In a dramatic appeal, twelve U.S. politicians have urged President Joe Biden and the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs to secure the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, who has been detained in Nigeria for over three months. Gambaryan, charged with money laundering and tax evasion, is considered by many to be “wrongfully detained” by the Nigerian government.
On June 4, a letter sent to President Biden, Secretary Antony Blinken, and Envoy Roger D. Carstens highlighted the urgency of the situation. The politicians expressed grave concerns for Gambaryan’s safety, emphasizing the need for swift action to protect his life.
The letter, primarily signed by members of Congress, described the charges against Gambaryan as “baseless” and alleged that Nigerian authorities are using these accusations as a tactic to extort Binance. Gambaryan, head of financial crime compliance at Binance, was invited to Nigeria to discuss the exchange’s compliance issues. However, his visit took a drastic turn, leading to his detention after meetings that grew increasingly hostile.
Currently held in the infamous Kuje Prison, Gambaryan faces dire conditions. Reports indicate he has contracted malaria, and a court order for his transfer to a private hospital has been ignored. Despite a bail hearing on May 18 and a subsequent court appearance on May 22, Gambaryan’s condition has visibly deteriorated, raising alarms among U.S. officials.
Gambaryan’s inability to meet his legal team without Nigerian authorities present further complicates his situation. With a history of service as a federal agent for the Internal Revenue Service, Gambaryan’s current plight underscores the severe implications of his detention.
As the situation unfolds, the call for President Biden’s intervention grows louder, with politicians insisting on immediate measures to secure Gambaryan’s release and ensure his safety.