Former IRS Chief of Investigations Richard Weber recently highlighted the distressing situation of Nigerian Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, who is currently imprisoned in Nigeria’s Kuje prison. Weber described the conditions in Kuje prison as being with some of the worst terrorists, emphasizing that Gambaryan, a crypto compliance chief, did not belong in such a place. He urged the U.S. government to intervene and release Gambaryan to his wife and children in California, highlighting that Gambaryan is essentially being held hostage for a crime he did not commit.
Gambaryan’s ordeal began in February 2024 when he traveled to Nigeria for discussions on digital assets, believing he had safe passage in and out of the country. However, he was subsequently arrested on charges of tax evasion and money laundering. This led to widespread speculation within the crypto community about the legitimacy of his arrest, with U.S. lawmaker French Hill labeling him as a “pawn in a Nigerian political fight.” Gambaryan has been in prison for over 200 days and his health has deteriorated significantly, with reports of him suffering from malaria, double pneumonia, and complications from a herniated disc.
In a video from a September court hearing in Abuja, Gambaryan is seen visibly struggling to walk and expressing his innocence, questioning why he was not provided with a wheelchair. His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has also spoken out about the injustice her husband is facing, calling for his release and criticizing the lack of humanity and justice in his treatment. The situation has taken a significant toll on Yuki, who finds it increasingly challenging to remain hopeful amidst her husband’s prolonged detention and deteriorating health.
Weber’s comments on the podcast “Designated” shed light on the dire circumstances faced by Gambaryan, emphasizing that he is a victim of arbitrary imprisonment. The fact that a former law enforcement official and dedicated public servant is being held in such conditions has raised concerns about due process and human rights violations. The call for the U.S. government to intervene and secure Gambaryan’s release demonstrates the seriousness of the situation and the need for diplomatic efforts to ensure his safe return to his family in California.
The case of Tigran Gambaryan highlights the complexities and risks that individuals working in the crypto industry face, especially when operating in countries with unclear regulatory frameworks and political instability. The arbitrary detention of a law-abiding citizen like Gambaryan underscores the challenges of navigating legal systems in foreign jurisdictions and the vulnerability of individuals to political agendas. As the crypto space continues to evolve and expand globally, ensuring the protection and security of industry professionals is essential to safeguarding their rights and well-being in the face of legal uncertainties and geopolitical tensions.
The plight of Tigran Gambaryan serves as a stark reminder of the importance of upholding justice, human rights, and diplomatic relations in the context of emerging technologies and digital assets. His case underscores the need for international cooperation and advocacy to address injustices and protect individuals like him from arbitrary detention and mistreatment. As the crypto community rallies behind Gambaryan and calls for his release, it is crucial for governments and institutions to prioritize his well-being and work towards a resolution that upholds the principles of fairness, transparency, and respect for human dignity.
