Yesterday, US Congress members Chrissy Houlahan and French Hill visited Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive, in Kuje Prison in Nigeria. Gambaryan has been detained for over three months, facing charges of money laundering despite the withdrawal of tax evasion allegations against him.

During their visit, the lawmakers were deeply concerned by Gambaryan's poor health condition, as he has contracted malaria and double pneumonia while in custody. The dire prison environment and lack of proper medical attention have taken a significant toll on his well-being, leading Houlahan and Hill to call for his immediate humanitarian release.

The lawmakers' visit follows a joint letter from 18 US Congress members to President Biden and Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging them to intervene and secure Gambaryan's release. Many former federal prosecutors and agents have also joined the call, highlighting Gambaryan's extensive experience in combating financial crimes and his cooperation with Nigerian authorities.

Despite the withdrawal of the tax fraud charges, Gambaryan remains in custody due to the money laundering allegations, which prevent him from being granted bail as he is deemed a flight risk. The ongoing diplomatic efforts between the US and Nigeria reflect the tension surrounding this case, as the American government seeks to secure the release of one of its citizens.

Binance, the cryptocurrency exchange where Gambaryan served as a compliance officer, has stood by him, asserting that he was not a key decision-maker at the company. The exchange continues to negotiate with the Nigerian authorities to resolve the legal issues, with the next trial session scheduled for July 9, 2024.

Gambaryan's wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has expressed disappointment in the US government's delayed response, urging more decisive action to secure her husband's release from the dire prison conditions and poor health situation he is facing.

The case of Tigran Gambaryan has become a focal point of concern, as US lawmakers and former federal officials rally to advocate for his humanitarian release and ensure his well-being is prioritized during this challenging ordeal.