Polygon (matic) 
A group of former United States federal prosecutors and agents have called on the U.S. Department of State to assist in the release of Tigran Gambaryan, head of financial crimes and compliance at Binance. Gambaryan is currently detained in Nigeria, facing allegations of money laundering and tax evasion.
In a letter dated June 6, former government officials criticized the U.S. government’s response, describing it as “wholly lacking” and warning that further inaction could lead to severe consequences. Gambaryan, who previously served as a Special Agent with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), was recognized for his contributions to various cases, including those involving terrorism financing and identity theft, such as the Silk Road case.
“Several of us worked alongside Tigran during these cases and saw his tireless devotion to the rule of law firsthand,” the letter noted.
The group emphasized that the charges against Gambaryan are unfounded. They argued that his role at Binance does not make him an appropriate representative for the company in this matter. The letter concluded with a plea for the U.S. government to use its diplomatic power to secure Gambaryan’s immediate release.
Gambaryan traveled to Nigeria in January to discuss Binance’s financial compliance. At that time, Nigerian officials allegedly demanded a substantial payment to resolve compliance issues, prompting Gambaryan and his colleagues to leave the country due to safety concerns. He returned a month later, only to have his passport confiscated and subsequently be arrested.
As pressure mounts on the U.S. government, Nigerian Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, has stated that Nigerian prosecutors are confident in their case against Gambaryan. The minister also addressed claims that the Nigerian government has not followed due process, asserting that Binance will have the opportunity to defend itself.
His comments come in response to U.S. lawmakers urging President Joe Biden to appoint a Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs to manage Gambaryan’s case.
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