In a recent development, a Nigerian court ordered the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, following the government’s decision to drop money laundering charges against him. The charges were withdrawn to enable Gambaryan to receive urgent medical treatment abroad. Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen and Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, had been held since February on allegations of laundering over $35 million, which he and Binance have consistently denied. Despite his release, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) will continue the case against Binance.
EFCC lawyer Ekele Ihenacho confirmed the charges against Gambaryan were dropped due to health concerns, with diplomatic pressure also playing a role in his release. Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, had previously raised alarms about his deteriorating condition, fearing lasting damage to his health.
Separate tax evasion charges against Binance, the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchange, remain active, with the company also refuting these claims.
