Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Reportedly Charged With 12 Crimes in France, Including Crypto-Related Offenses

Toncoin (TON), the native cryptocurrency of Telegram-endorsed The Open Network, fell by up to 5% following the news of Durov's indictment by French authorities.

Telegram founder and CEO Pavel Durov faces 12 charges in France, including three related to cryptocurrency offenses, following his recent arrest.

The charges, which were reported by local media but not officially confirmed, include three crypto-related offenses: “providing illegal cryptology services for confidentiality, providing a cryptology tool without prior declaration, and importing cryptology tools without prior declaration.”

Durov was arrested at Le Bourget Airport near Paris on Saturday, Aug. 20, and is being held in custody while investigations continue. Reports indicate that the charges are related to Telegram-endorsed The Open Network’s native cryptocurrency, Toncoin (TON).

If convicted on these charges, Durov could face up to 20 years in prison, according to reports. The charges are reportedly being investigated by France’s Central Office for the Fight against Organized Crime.

Durov's arrest and potential charges have sparked widespread discussion and varying reactions within the crypto community. Some community members have expressed concern over the broad and seemingly illogical nature of the charges, while others have highlighted the importance of legal clarity and adherence to established laws.

The news of Durov’s arrest and the subsequent charges against him come amid a broader crackdown on cryptocurrency-related activities in France.

In June, French authorities announced the seizure of over 200 million euros ($210 million) in crypto assets as part of an investigation into a suspected money-laundering scheme involving Binance.

The exchange was subsequently granted permission to continue operating in the country, albeit under increased regulatory oversight.

Meanwhile, TON has faced several challenges since its launch, including legal troubles and a delay in the launch of its blockchain.

Despite these setbacks, TON has managed to attract significant attention and users, thanks in part to its integration with Telegram.

The network's native token, TON, has also seen substantial price movements since its launch.

At press time, TON was trading at $5.4, down 33% from its all-time high set in June.

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