Lawrence Damilola
Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan, detained in Nigeria on money laundering charges, was seen pleading for help as he limped into an Abuja courtroom on Monday, denied the use of a wheelchair. “This is a show. I’m a f*cking innocent person. Why are you doing this to me?” Gambaryan shouted to onlookers, visibly struggling to walk with only a single crutch.
A video shared on social media captured his distress as he clutched a prison guard’s arm for support, only for the guard to refuse further assistance, citing orders.
In response to the incident, Binance CEO Teng called for an end to Gambaryan’s “inhumane treatment,” demanding he be released for medical care. “This inhumane treatment of Tigran must end. He must be allowed to go home for medical treatment and to be with his family,” Teng stated.
This inhumane treatment of Tigran must end. He must be allowed to go home for medical treatment and to be with his family. https://t.co/HsQNoyE0cS
— Richard Teng (@_RichardTeng) September 3, 2024
Gambaryan, who is facing charges of money laundering, has reportedly been denied adequate medical care and access to the staff at the U.S. Embassy while in custody, according to his family and legal representatives.
Gambaryan appeared in court in Abuja on Monday in visible distress, struggling to walk with a single crutch. The video posted on X shows him pleading with a prison guard for support as he entered the courtroom, saying, “I’m not okay; this is f****D up.” The guard refused to assist him further, prompting him to turn to onlookers, saying, “Why couldn’t I use a godd*mn wheelchair?”
His lawyers submitted a new bail application on medical grounds, highlighting his deteriorating health due to conditions acquired in prison, including malaria, pneumonia, tonsillitis, and complications from a herniated disc. A spokesperson for his family said that some medical records presented in court suggest an urgent need for surgery, although crucial documents like an MRI scan were missing.
Despite this, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed the bail request, asserting that Gambaryan is not unwell and has refused treatment. Gambaryan’s family disputes these claims, arguing that prison authorities have withheld key medical information and that Gambaryan has been denied access to health care.
The family further alleges that Gambaryan has not been granted access to his legal team and representatives from the U.S. Embassy. His wife, Yuki, issued a statement criticizing the conditions of his detention, saying, “The U.S. Government must do more to help Tigran. I urge them to use every available tool to free an innocent American who is at risk of permanent damage.”
She added, “This entire situation is inhumane and degrading, and I am fed up. There must be consequences for this disregard of law and human rights.”
Gambaryan filed a lawsuit in March against Nigeria’s National Security Adviser and the EFCC, alleging violations of his basic human rights. His legal team contends that he was detained under false pretenses after being invited to Nigeria for a meeting. On Monday, Gambaryan reiterated in court that he had not received proper medical care during his detention and has been blocked from seeing his legal counsel.
Last week, Binance urged the U.S. authorities to use their influence to ensure Gambaryan’s release on compassionate grounds.
Read More
- Binance Urges Nigeria to Free Former US Federal Agent-Turned Crypto Exec Gambaryan
- On the Run: Binance Executive Escapes Nigerian Custody Amid Four-Count Criminal Charges
- Escalating Tensions: Detained Binance Executive Fights Back, Sues Nigerian Authorities for Alleged Human Rights Violation
Lawrence does not hold any crypto asset. This article is provided for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. The Shib Magazine and The Shib Daily are the official media and publications of the Shiba Inu cryptocurrency project. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own research and consult with a qualified financial adviser before making any investment decisions.
