Telegram messenger founder Pavel Durov was released from custody on Wednesday, August 28, after nearly four days of detention, Bloomberg reports.
“According to a Justice Ministry spokesperson, Durov will now appear before an investigating judge at the Paris court in the north of the capital. The judge is expected to subject the 39-year-old to additional questioning before deciding whether to press charges against him or to designate him as a material witness in the investigation and release him,” the report said.
If charges are filed, the court will have to decide whether to impose any restrictions on his movement or whether Durov should be granted bail. The entire process is expected to take place behind closed doors.
French authorities are investigating a wide range of charges. They include refusing to help the authorities conduct lawful wiretaps of suspects, allowing the sale of child sexual abuse materials, and facilitating drug trafficking.
It is noted that although the filing of charges is a key point in French investigations, criminal proceedings – if granted – can take several months or even years. As the investigation progresses, Durov will have the opportunity to challenge any charges through his legal team.
