French authorities have lifted travel restrictions on Telegram founder and businessman Pavel Durov related to the investigation into the messenger’s operations. The decision, as noted, was taken on 10 November, Bloomberg reported on 13 November, citing a source.
The same report was released by France-Presse news agency, citing a judicial source. According to one of them, Durov has “fully adhered to judicial oversight” over the past year.
According to the Bloomberg interlocutor, who is aware of the situation and wished to remain unnamed, the latest ruling completely lifts the ban on Durov leaving France and also cancels the requirement for him to regularly check in at the local police station.
Last year in August, French authorities detained Pavel Durov as he exited a private jet at Paris airport. He spent four days in custody. He was questioned as part of an investigation related to insufficient moderation of content on Telegram and his refusal to co-operate with French law enforcement.
Durov could face charges related to terrorism, drugs, fraud, and crimes against children.
Pavel Durov denies the charges. He has promised that the messenger will cooperate with the authorities, and those using Telegram to commit crimes should not be able to jeopardise the safety of bona fide users.
A few days after his arrest, the Telegram founder posted a bail of 5 million euros in exchange for his release. He was banned from leaving France and required to check in twice a week. In June, Durov achieved a relaxation of measures. He was allowed limited travel to Dubai.