Is Tigran Gambaryan a Hostage? US Lawmakers Stand For Binance Exec Detained in Nigeria
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In a pressing appeal to Congress, Representative Rich McCormick has urged lawmakers to consider Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan as a hostage due to his ongoing detention in Nigeria since February. McCormick’s resolution highlights serious concerns over Gambaryan’s treatment and calls for immediate action from the US government.
Call for Hostage Status
In his resolution submitted on July 10, Rep. McCormick claimed that Gambaryan’s detention was a tactic by the Nigerian government to extort Binance. He called for the US government to formally declare Gambaryan as a hostage and ensure his release by mid-July, especially given the court’s upcoming recess until September.
“If his case isn’t resolved by mid-July, Tigran could face an even longer detention period,” McCormick stated, highlighting the need for urgent intervention.
Overview of the Case
Tigran Gambaryan was detained alongside his colleague, Nadeem Anjarwalla, facing serious charges of tax evasion and money laundering. While Anjarwalla managed to escape custody, Gambaryan remains in prison, with recent developments causing alarm regarding his health.
Nigeria’s tax authority has dropped the tax evasion charges, but the money laundering case continues to loom over him.
Support from Family & Fellow Lawmakers
Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki, has launched a petition for her husband’s return, which is nearing its goal of 5,000 signatures. She has been in touch with Binance staff and legal representatives, but communication with Nigerian officials has been limited.
Rep. French Hill, who visited Gambaryan in prison, is supporting McCormick’s resolution. Hill expressed concern about Gambaryan’s deteriorating health, urging the Nigerian government to drop the remaining charges and facilitate his return to the US.
What Next?
The resolution by Rep. McCormick highlights increasing pressure on the US government to act decisively.
With more than 100 federal prosecutors backing the call for intervention, the fate of Tigran Gambaryan remains uncertain, making it crucial for lawmakers to ensure his rights and well-being are protected.
