LAGOS, Nigeria – Two United States lawmakers have petitioned the U.S. embassy in Nigeria to intervene in the case of Tigran Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen and head of financial crimes compliance for cryptocurrency giant Binance. They are urging the embassy to advocate for Gambaryan’s release on humanitarian grounds due to concerns about his deteriorating health and the harsh conditions in Kuje prison, where he’s been held since February on money laundering charges.
Representatives French Hill (R-AR) and Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) visited Gambaryan during a recent trip to Nigeria. In a social media video, Hill stated, “We’ve requested the embassy’s assistance in securing Tigran’s humanitarian release. The prison conditions are appalling, and he maintains his innocence. Additionally, his health is a significant concern.” Houlahan echoed these sentiments, describing Gambaryan’s living conditions as “difficult” and noting his visible stress and declining health.
Previously, Binance reported that Gambaryan had been battling malaria and pneumonia while in custody. The money laundering trial is ongoing, with the next hearing scheduled for July 1st. Gambaryan maintains his innocence.
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