Telegram Founder Pavel Durov Arrested in France

Pavel Durov, the Russian-French billionaire and CEO of the Telegram messaging app, was reportedly arrested at Bourget Airport near Paris on Saturday evening, August 24. The 39-year-old tech entrepreneur was detained around 8 p.m. local time (6 p.m. GMT) while traveling on his private jet, according to TF1 TV.

The arrest follows an active warrant issued in France as part of a preliminary police investigation. Authorities are focusing on Telegram's moderation practices, with concerns that the platform's lack of oversight has facilitated criminal activity. 

Durov is expected to appear in court on Sunday to address the allegations.

Telegram, known for its encrypted messaging service, boasts nearly one billion users worldwide and holds significant influence in Russia, Ukraine, and other former Soviet republics. It ranks among the top social media platforms globally, alongside Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram, TikTok, and WeChat.