Court Approves Medical Treatment for Binance Executive, Gambaryan, in Abuja Hospital

The Federal High Court in Abuja has granted Tigran Gambaryan, a Binance executive currently detained in Nigeria, permission to receive medical treatment at a standard hospital in Abuja.

This decision, issued by Justice Emeka Nwite on October 11th, 2024, allows Gambaryan to undergo treatment for a period ranging from three days to two weeks under strict security supervision.

Gambaryan, who has been held since February on charges of money laundering and tax evasion, had his initial bail application denied despite health concerns raised by his legal team. His lawyer, Mark Mordi, SAN, argued that Gambaryan's health was deteriorating, citing the need for surgery due to a herniated disc and psychiatric care for depression and anxiety.

However, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) opposed the bail request, suggesting that Gambaryan's health condition was exaggerated and could be managed within the correctional facility.

Justice Nwite's ruling came after considering the appeal against the initial bail denial, which was deemed an "abuse of court process." Despite the opposition, the court acknowledged the necessity for Gambaryan to receive adequate medical attention, thus permitting his transfer to a hospital. The court's decision reflects a balance between ensuring the detainee's health needs are met while maintaining the integrity of the judicial process.

The case against Gambaryan is part of a broader crackdown on cryptocurrency activities in Nigeria, with the executive facing allegations of laundering over $35 million. As the trial continues, scheduled for further hearings on October 18th, November 22nd, and 25th, 2024, the legal proceedings remain a focal point in the ongoing discourse surrounding cryptocurrency regulation and compliance in Nigeria.