Telegram CEO arrested: Elon Musk, Edward Snowden, other tech titans raise alarm over free speech in France, Europe

Pavel Durov, the 39-year-old founder of the popular messaging app Telegram, was arrested at Le Bourget Airport in France on Sunday, August 25. The arrest, based on a warrant related to alleged offences associated with Telegram, has sparked international controversy and criticism.

Why was Pavel Durov arrested?

Durov was detained for alleged offenses related to the messaging app, AFP reported earlier, citing officials it didn’t identify. The 39-year-old billionaire is suspected of failing to take steps to prevent criminal use of Telegram, AFP said, adding he’s expected to appear in court on Sunday.