Binance Executive Hospitalized After Collapse During Nigerian Court

Key Points:

• Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan collapsed during his money laundering trial in Abuja, prompting immediate hospitalization.
• Gambaryan’s wife decried the harsh conditions at Kuje Prison and his requirement to attend court despite severe illness.
• Facing charges of money laundering and tax violations, Gambaryan’s trials are scheduled for June 14 and June 20, following his initial detention in February.

According to DL News, Tigran Gambaryan, Binance’s head of financial crime compliance, experienced a medical emergency during his money laundering trial in Abuja, Nigeria.

Binance Executive Collapses in Nigerian Courtroom

On Thursday, Gambaryan fainted as he stepped into the dock, prompting Justice Emeka Nwite to order immediate medical attention. He was directed to be transferred to Nizayime Hospital, a private medical facility, for urgent treatment.

The Binance executive has been held in Kuje Prison since April 8 following his arrest on suspicion of involvement in a $35 million money laundering case. His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has criticized the conditions at Kuje Prison, describing them as harsh and unsuitable even for the strongest individuals. She also expressed her frustration over her husband being forced to appear in court despite his deteriorating health, leading to his collapse.

On May 17, the opening day of his trial, the court denied Gambaryan bail, deeming him a flight risk. Initially set to continue, the trial has now been postponed until June 20. The Binance executive is also scheduled to face tax violation charges on June 14, filed by Nigeria’s Federal Inland Revenue Service.

Legal Struggles Persist for Tigran Gambaryan

Gambaryan’s ordeal began on February 26, when he was detained after a meeting with Nigerian officials to discuss regulatory issues concerning Binance‘s operations in the country. His lead lawyer, Mark Mordi, has been actively seeking urgent medical care for Gambaryan amid the ongoing legal battles.

The situation has sparked criticism from various quarters, particularly from Yuki Gambaryan, who condemned the treatment of her husband and the dire conditions within the pre-trial detention facility notorious for its harsh environment.