The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has requested access to Pavel Durov, the founder of Telegram, who is currently detained in France. Durov, a UAE citizen, is also a citizen of Russia and France. The UAE’s foreign ministry is “closely following the case” and emphasizes the urgency of providing Durov with necessary consular services.
Durov, who lives in Dubai, oversees Telegram, a messaging platform with about 900 million monthly active users. His detention in France relates to allegations that Telegram failed to combat crime effectively. French authorities accuse him of refusing to support legal wiretaps, enabling the distribution of child sexual abuse material, and aiding drug trafficking.
The Russian embassy in France has also demanded access to Durov. The UAE has made efforts to attract high-profile residents and has granted citizenship to select wealthy individuals.