Imprisonment of Tigran Gambaryan Sparks Outrage
Richard Weber, the former IRS Chief of Investigations, has come forward with doubts regarding the circumstances surrounding the detention of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan. While Gambaryan has been held in Nigeria since February 2024 on grounds of tax evasion and money laundering, Weber does not find the arrest credible and considers Gambaryan a hostage in political tussles.
Hostage in Kuje Prison
Weber’s comments came in the October 3 episode of the Illicit Edge podcast “Designated.” They brought out the grim reality staring at Gambaryan. Currently in custody at Kuje prison, the former lawman is reportedly held in the same facility as terrorists and hardcore criminals. “Tigran is a hostage,” Weber said, noting that Gambaryan had been in jail for over 200 days without any good evidence being presented against him.
Pressure on U.S. Government to Take Action
Weber also pressed the U.S. government to take action, urging Gambaryan’s release to his family in California. “He did nothing wrong,” Weber stressed. Since his imprisonment of close to eight months, little clarity on what charges Gambaryan faces has surfaced. Some speculate that his detention is part of a higher political battle in Nigeria, and U.S. Representative French Hill referred to Gambaryan as a “pawn.”
Declining Health Behind Bars
The health of the Binance executive has deteriorated severely since being detained. Gambaryan has contracted malaria and pneumonia, along with complications of a herniated disc, all of which have put him in critical physical condition. In a video recorded at a court hearing on September 29 in Abuja, he is not able to walk properly, raising further concern for his well-being.
Family Appeals for His Release
In the last Illicit Edge episode featuring Gambaryan, his wife Yuki relayed her despair and frustration in light of her husband’s unfair detention. “It is getting harder and harder to stay hopeful,” she said, speaking against the inhumane conditions Gambaryan has to put up with. The global crypto community also stands in disbelief at the legitimacy of his detention, rallying behind a plea for his release.
