A convoy of police vehicles escorted the courier of Telegram founder Pavel Durov as it exited the courthouse in Paris, according to reports from RIA Novosti. The high-profile moment drew attention from onlookers and journalists who had gathered outside the courthouse in the French capital.
Following several hours inside the court, Paris prosecutors indicated that Durov might be granted bail, pending further proceedings. The agency noted the possibility of release, subject to conditions set by the court.
Before these developments, the case carried a potential maximum penalty of ten years for Durov, with charges spanning multiple areas including operating a platform believed to facilitate illegal transactions. The serious nature of the allegations had kept the business figure in the French judicial system as investigators reviewed the case.
Reports stated that Durov arrived in France from Azerbaijan aboard a private jet and was seen disembarking at Le Bourget Airport on the evening of August 24. The appearance of the Telegram founder underscored the international dimension of the probe and the high level attention it attracted from observers across Europe and beyond.
French authorities reportedly accused Durov of failing to cooperate with inquiries into cyber and financial crimes connected to the Telegram platform. Reuters highlighted that he was under scrutiny by national cybercrime and fraud divisions as part of the broader investigation into the matter.
During the same period, prosecutors clarified that Durov was questioned as part of an inquiry involving an unnamed individual facing multiple criminal counts. The investigation, launched on July 8, has been described as wide-ranging, touching on several aspects of online activity and financial conduct.
Earlier remarks from experts noted the strategic choices behind Telegram’s presence in different jurisdictions, including considerations about the location of corporate offices. An analyst previously explained the reasons behind the decision not to relocate the Telegram office to Paris, citing regulatory, logistical, and strategic factors that influence where a technology company conducts its operations.
As the case unfolded, observers stressed the importance of maintaining due process and ensuring that investigations proceed with transparency. The evolving legal proceedings in France highlight the ongoing tensions between fast-growing digital platforms and the regulatory frameworks that govern cybercrime, financial activity, and online communications.
Throughout the developments, the narrative remained focused on the legal parameters, the role of prosecutors, and the procedures that govern bail decisions in high-profile cases. The situation also drew attention to the way international figures and tech leaders navigate legal processes when facing cross-border inquiries.