Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, raises concerns over the deteriorating health of Tigran Gambaryan, a detained executive in Nigeria. Teng calls for Gambaryan's release for urgent medical treatment, criticizing the Nigerian government's handling of the situation amidst allegations of tax evasion and money laundering against the firm.
Richard Teng, CEO of Binance, has expressed deep concerns regarding the deteriorating health of Tigran Gambaryan, a senior executive detained by Nigerian authorities. Gambaryan and Binance's regional manager for Africa, Nadeem Anjarwalla, were arrested on February 28, amid allegations of tax evasion and money laundering against the cryptocurrency firm.
Teng highlighted that Gambaryan's condition has worsened significantly, citing his need for urgent medical attention due to a herniated disc. Teng revealed that Gambaryan is experiencing severe pain and is unable to walk. Despite his critical health status, the Nigerian government has reportedly denied him access to necessary medical care, including a wheelchair, and has obstructed his access to legal counsel ahead of his trial, set for September 2.
“His detention is unjust, unfair, and unlawful,” Teng stated, emphasizing the psychological and physical toll this situation is taking on Gambaryan. He has appealed to the Nigerian government for humanitarian grounds to allow Gambaryan to seek medical treatment in the U.S. and reunite with his family.
Additionally, Teng criticized the Nigerian government for using Gambaryan as leverage in their disputes with Binance, insisting that the company has successfully negotiated issues with other nations without resorting to detaining innocent employees. He urged a collaborative resolution to support the Web3 industry in Nigeria and foster investment opportunities, underscoring the importance of addressing macroeconomic factors contributing to the naira's decline, which the Nigerian government has wrongfully attributed to Binance's operations.
As Gambaryan's trial date approaches, the cryptocurrency community and international observers are watching closely, advocating for justice and fair treatment.
