Over 100 former US federal officials have called for the release of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, detained in Nigeria. In a letter sent to Secretary of State Antony Blinken on June 6, they urged the US State Department to act quickly, expressing concerns about insufficient government efforts and warning of severe consequences if inaction continues.
Why Is Gambaryan Important?
Gambaryan has a notable history of serving the US as a Special Agent at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). His decade-long service included tackling high-profile public corruption cases, child pornography, terrorism financing, identity theft, and the Silk Road case. Many officials who signed the letter attested to his commitment to upholding the law, stressing his significant contributions.
What Happened in Nigeria?
In January, Gambaryan visited Nigeria with other Binance employees to discuss financial compliance. Following the meeting, Nigerian officials allegedly demanded a substantial payment to resolve compliance issues. Fearing for their safety, the team left Nigeria, but Gambaryan returned the next month and was subsequently arrested, with his passport confiscated.
By February, Gambaryan was detained at the Kuje correctional facility in Abuja on allegations of money laundering and tax evasion. His colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla, faced similar charges but escaped detention and fled to Kenya. The situation has prompted strong reactions from former US officials.
Criticism of the State Department
The case underscores the broader implications of the US government’s failure to protect its citizens abroad. The officials’ letter is not just a plea for Gambaryan’s release but also a call to the US State Department for stronger action and support in critical situations.
Key Takeaways for US Officials
- Immediate action is required from the US State Department for Gambaryan’s release.
- The detention raises concerns about the safety of US citizens working internationally.
- There is a need for stronger advocacy and protection for US nationals abroad.
The united stance of former prosecutors and officials highlights the urgency of addressing this issue to prevent severe consequences and ensure justice for a person who has dedicated his career to fighting crime.