Telegram CEO Pavel Durov was reportedly arrested at a French airport, raising questions about the reasons behind his detention and its implications for the tech world.

French authorities have apprehended Pavel Durov, the CEO of Telegram, at a northern Paris airport.

Reports from French media indicate that Mr. Durov was taken into custody following the arrival of his private jet at Le Bourget Airport.

Officials state that the individual, who is 39 years old, was apprehended based on an arrest warrant for actions connected to a well-known instant messaging application.

Russia’s TASS state news agency reports that the embassy in France is implementing prompt measures to clarify the situation.

According to its website, TF1, a French television network, reported that Durov was flying on his own personal jet during the time in question.

The usage of Telegram is widespread in Russia, Ukraine and other nations that formerly belonged to the Soviet Union.

In 2018, Russia prohibited the use of the app due to Mr Durov’s refusal in relinquishing user data beforehand.

However, in 2021 the ban was lifted.

After Facebook, YouTube, WhatsApp, Instagram,TikTok and Wechat; Telegram is considered to be one of the leading social media platforms.

In 2013, Telegram was established by Mr Durov. In the following year, he departed from Russia due to his rejection of government requests to close opposition groups on VKontakte, a social media platform that he had sold.

Source: BBC