Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — French authorities have commented on the detention of Pavel Durov, CEO of Telegram, in connection with an investigation covering 12 charges.

According to reports, the Cybercrime Department began the investigation on 8 July.

At this time, Pavel Durov does not hold the status of a suspect. He was summoned for questioning as a person who may provide crucial information for the investigation. It remains unclear whether he is being considered a suspect or merely a witness.

The investigation involves 12 charges against unnamed individuals, including serious allegations of involvement in the distribution of child pornography, drugs, and the creation of tools for illegal transactions.

Currently, investigators are questioning Durov. A judge has allowed the extension of his detention for up to 96 hours, meaning the Telegram founder will remain in custody at least until August 28. Along with him, his bodyguard and assistant were detained at the airport, questioned, and later released on Monday evening.

Following the arrest, Telegram rose to second place in downloads among social media apps in the American App Store and first place in France. Globally, Telegram ranks third in app charts. At the same time, the value of the TON cryptocurrency, actively supported by Durov, has dropped by nearly 23%.