Nigerian Government Withdraws Charges Against Gambaryan, Binance Exec

The Nigerian government has unexpectedly dropped the case against Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive facing money laundering allegations. Gambaryan, who has been detained since April, appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja where charges were withdrawn just days ahead of the initially scheduled October 25 hearing. Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, was detained on five counts related to money laundering and currency speculation, involving over $34 million. Despite two unsuccessful bail attempts, citing his health and being deemed a flight risk, the charges were suddenly dropped during a low-profile hearing. The unexpected move comes after prolonged diplomatic negotiations between Nigerian and U.S. officials. His detention at Kuje Correctional Centre and previous bail rejections drew attention from U.S. lawmakers, who advocated for his release. Another Binance official, Nadeem Anjarwalla, had earlier escaped from pre-trial custody in March, adding complexity to the case. This development concludes the case that has drawn international scrutiny, with Binance still facing separate tax evasion charges in Nigeria. Gambaryan’s health conditions had played a central role in his legal journey, but the court consistently maintained its stance against his bail, citing procedural concerns.

Crypto Billionaire BLord Arrested For Terrorism Financing 

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of a crypto billionaire, Linus Williams, popularly known as BLord. According to a statement on Tuesday by the Force Public Relations Officer, Olumuyiwa Adejobi, BLord was arrested for offences related to alleged internet fraud, terrorism funding, and violation of the CBN act based on complaints lodged against him and his company. Adejobi promised that the Police would do due diligence in the investigations into the allegations against the crypto billionaire and ensure Nigeria’s cyberspace is safe and secure. “The FCID (NPF-NCCC) is currently investigating complaints lodged against BLORD GROUP, BLORD REAL ESTATE LTD, BLORD JETPAYE LIMITED, and BILLPOINT TECHNOLOGY. “These offences include allegations bothering on cryptocurrency fraud, aiding internet fraud, computer-related fraud, terrorism funding, and non-compliance with regulatory frameworks. “We will do due diligence in our investigations. Our cyber space in Nigeria must be safe and secured by all means. We are committed to achieving that,” the statement reads.