Telegram CEO Arrested In France As TON Experiences Price Drop

On August 25th, 2024, Toncoin (TON) dropped over 20% following news about Pavel Durov, the founder and CEO of Telegram, being detained in France.

Key Details

TON serves as the native cryptocurrency for The Open Network, which Telegram initially developed but left behind in 2020 after an initial legal battle with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC). This latest incident underscores the strong connection between the blockchain project and Telegram itself, even though the messaging app has portrayed TON as an independent platform.

Durov was apprehended in France on Saturday evening, shortly after his private jet touched down at Bourget Airport near Paris, according to a recent Reuters report. The arrest, as reported by broadcasters BFMTV and TF1, was linked to a preliminary investigation concerning insufficient moderation on Telegram, which authorities argued facilitated criminal activities on the platform.

A Significant Impact

While formal charges against Durov have not been filed yet, the news has significantly impacted the TON ecosystem, with the value of the coin plummeting to $5.52 in just two hours. In light of these events, The Open Network reassured users via X, emphasizing that the ecosystem remains functional despite the arrest.

Telegram wants to assure everyone that the TON community remains strong and fully operational following the recent news concerning Pavel Durov. A post on X stated that Telegram users are being encouraged to stay calm, united, and continue building together.

Additionally, TON Ventures, a venture capital firm connected to the project, issued a statement suggesting that the arrest challenges the principles of free speech and decentralization. Others however believe that the situation is not that simple, and that Pavel was indeed involved in illicit activities.