Lawmakers Demand Action for “Wrongfully Detained” Gambaryan
In a fervent appeal to President Joe Biden, a group of U.S. politicians has urged immediate intervention in the case of Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance compliance officer detained in Nigeria. Gambaryan, a former federal agent, has been held for over three months on charges of money laundering and tax evasion, which U.S. lawmakers describe as “baseless.”
Detention Amidst Hostile Negotiations
Gambaryan travelled to Nigeria on February 26, 2024, following an invitation from the Nigerian government to address compliance issues for Binance. Initial meetings were professional, but tensions escalated, culminating in Gambaryan’s arrest. He is now held in Kuje Prison, notorious for its harsh conditions and use for detaining ISIS combatants.
Concerns Over Health and Legal Rights
The situation has sparked significant concern among U.S. politicians, who highlighted Gambaryan’s deteriorating health. He has tested positive for malaria and, despite a court order for private medical treatment, remains untreated. Moreover, he has been denied bail and faced significant obstacles in meeting with his legal team, exacerbating fears for his well-being.
Appeals for Presidential Intervention
In a letter dated June 4, 2024, twelve U.S. politicians, including several Congress members, called on President Biden, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Roger D. Carstens to prioritize Gambaryan’s case. They emphasized the urgency, fearing for his life if swift action is not taken.
The letter, shared by Fox Business reporter Eleanor Terrett, underscores the belief that the charges are a coercion tactic by Nigerian authorities to pressure Binance. It calls for the Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs to lead efforts in securing Gambaryan’s release.
Background and Legal Struggles
Before joining Binance, Gambaryan served as a federal agent with the Internal Revenue Service for a decade. His expertise in financial crime compliance is highly regarded, making his detention all the more contentious. The lawmakers’ letter paints a grim picture of his current state, citing a court appearance where Gambaryan collapsed, unable to stand due to his deteriorating health.
Conclusion
The U.S. politicians’ plea highlights the complex intersection of international diplomacy, corporate compliance, and human rights. As the situation unfolds, the call for immediate action from the highest levels of the U.S. government underscores the gravity of Gambaryan’s plight and the broader implications for international corporate operations.