Richard Weber, the former Chief of Investigations at the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), recently spoke out about the harsh conditions faced by Nigerian Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan while imprisoned in Kuje prison in Nigeria. Gambaryan, who is the crypto compliance chief, found himself imprisoned alongside terrorists in a high-security facility after being arrested for a compliance issue at the crypto company. Weber described Gambaryan as a “hostage” and emphasized that he had done nothing wrong, calling for the U.S. government to intervene and release him to his family in California. Despite being detained for over 200 days, the reasons for Gambaryan’s arrest remain unclear, leading to questions about the legitimacy of the charges.
Gambaryan’s detainment occurred in late February 2024 while he was in Nigeria for discussions on digital asset policy. He was detained on charges of tax evasion and money laundering, which many in the crypto community consider to be politically motivated. U.S. lawmaker French Hill even referred to Gambaryan as a “pawn in a Nigerian political fight,” highlighting the complexities surrounding his case. The uncertainty surrounding Gambaryan’s arrest and the conditions of his imprisonment have raised concerns about the lack of justice and due process in the case.
The situation has taken a toll on Gambaryan’s health, with reports indicating that he has suffered from malaria and double pneumonia while in prison. Video footage from a court hearing in Abuja showed Gambaryan struggling to walk due to complications from a herniated disc, further highlighting the deteriorating state of his physical well-being. Gambaryan’s wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has also raised her voice in support of his release, emphasizing the injustice and inhumane treatment that her husband is enduring. Despite her efforts to stay hopeful, the prolonged detention and health issues faced by Gambaryan paint a grim picture of his current situation.
Weber’s comments, alongside Yuki Gambaryan’s plea for her husband’s release, shed light on the humanitarian crisis that Tigran Gambaryan is facing in Kuje prison. The lack of clarity surrounding the charges against him, coupled with the harsh conditions and health challenges, underscore the urgency of resolving his case and ensuring his safe return to his family. The involvement of prominent figures like Richard Weber and French Hill reflects the growing concern within the crypto community and beyond about the treatment of individuals caught in politically charged situations. As the call for justice and fair treatment for Gambaryan continues to grow, it remains to be seen how his case will be resolved and what impact it will have on future interactions between the crypto industry and government authorities.
