Binance, the renowned cryptocurrency exchange, has issued a statement clarifying the role of its employee, Tigran Gambaryan, who is currently detained in Nigeria. The company emphasized that Gambaryan, an American citizen, does not hold any managerial position within Binance and serves solely as a law enforcement officer, lacking decision-making authority within the organization.
The clarification comes in the aftermath of Gambaryan’s arrest in February, along with his colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla, on suspicion of involvement in money laundering activities in Nigeria. According to revelations from the Federal High Court in Abuja last Thursday, the charges against Binance Holdings Limited, Gambaryan, and Anjarwalla amount to $35,400,000 in money laundering.
While Gambaryan remains in custody, Anjarwalla managed to evade capture and flee the country.
Addressing Gambaryan’s role within Binance, the company stated that his primary responsibility is to address compliance issues. The statement highlighted Gambaryan’s background as a law enforcement professional and his continued commitment to advocating for good governance and transparent regulatory financial practices.
Binance underscored Gambaryan’s significant contributions to global law enforcement efforts, including assistance in freezing and seizing assets worth over $2.2 billion and collaborations with U.S. agencies such as the FBI, DOJ, and DEA. Additionally, Gambaryan has provided training sessions for Nigerian law enforcement officials on the role of exchanges in the digital asset ecosystem.
Despite Gambaryan’s detainment and pending legal proceedings, Binance urged that he not be held accountable, stressing ongoing discussions between the company and Nigerian government officials.
Meanwhile, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) is preparing to charge Binance Holdings Limited, Gambaryan, and Anjarwalla to court.
The statement from Binance sheds light on the complex situation surrounding Gambaryan’s detainment and underscores the company’s efforts to cooperate with Nigerian authorities while advocating for the fair treatment of its employee.
