Binance Executive Tigran Gambaryan Jets Out Of Nigeria Day After He Was Freed From Nigerian Prison

Tigran Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen and Binance’s Head of Financial Crime Compliance, has been released from detention in Nigeria after eight months.

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) dropped the money laundering charges against him in a Federal High Court in Abuja, citing his deteriorating health and “critical international and diplomatic reasons”.

EFCC prosecutor stated in court, “The government has reviewed the case and, taken into consideration that the second defendant (Mr Gambaryan) is an employee of the first defendant (Binance Holdings Limited), whose status in the matter has more impact than the second defendant’s, and also taking into consideration some critical international and diplomatic reasons, the state seeks to discontinue the case against the second defendant”.

Gambaryan’s health had significantly declined during his imprisonment, requiring him to use a wheelchair.

He was allowed to leave Kuje prison last night.

His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, expressed relief and gratitude to the U.S. government and supporters, saying, “The past eight months have been a living nightmare… Our children cannot wait to see their dad again”.

“I also want to thank everyone who helped us throughout this ordeal. There were moments I feared this day would never come, but Tigran’s supporters gave me hope and strength”, she recounted.

The road ahead for Tigran’s recovery is going to be difficult and I appreciate us being given the time and space to focus on that. Our children cannot wait to see their dad again.”

The case began in February when Gambaryan and colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla were detained for alleged involvement in a $35 million money laundering scheme.

Anjarwalla escaped custody in March, while Gambaryan remained imprisoned until his release.