Nigeria’s ongoing money laundering trial against Binance and two executives has taken a turn as Tigran Gambaryan’s health deteriorates while he remains in detention at Kuje prison. The trial was adjourned until July 5 after the first witness from Nigeria’s Securities and Exchange Commission was cross-examined.
Despite court orders, the prison has not released Gambaryan’s medical records from his recent hospital visit, leaving his family concerned about his worsening health condition. Justice Emeka Nwite has ordered that the reports be provided to Gambaryan’s lawyers by Friday to address these concerns.
Gambaryan, the head of financial crime compliance at the crypto exchange, has been in detention since February, sharing a cell with members of Boko Haram. His family spokesperson revealed that he has been experiencing health issues such as numbness in his foot, back pain, double pneumonia, and malaria during his time in prison.
His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, maintains that Tigran was not involved in decision-making at Binance and calls for his release, emphasizing his innocence. U.S. Congress members have visited Gambaryan and are advocating for further action to be taken on his behalf.
Meanwhile, Nadeem Anjarwalla, another executive facing money laundering charges, has managed to escape. Charges against both Gambaryan and Anjarwalla in a tax evasion case have been dropped, leaving Binance as the sole defendant in that particular trial, which is adjourned until July 12.
Binance has chosen not to provide a comment on the situation. CoinDesk has reached out to Nigerian authorities, including the SEC and the Financial Crimes Commission, for their input on the matter.
As the trial unfolds and Gambaryan’s health continues to be a concern, it is evident that the legal proceedings are complex and have significant implications for all parties involved. The calls for justice and fair treatment in this case are growing louder, both within Nigeria and on an international level.