Tigran Gambaryan, a former U.S. federal agent and current executive at Binance, has been detained in Nigeria for six months, following his arrest on February 26th, 2024. His prolonged imprisonment has sparked serious concerns over his deteriorating health and restricted access to proper medical care.
Health Deterioration and Lack of Medical Care
Reports indicate that Tigran Gambaryan, who suffers from a herniated disc in his back, is now unable to walk due to severe pain and muscle atrophy. Bed-bound and in need of blood thinners to prevent blood clots, his condition has been exacerbated by alleged inadequate medical attention in prison. The severity of his situation is growing, with fears that his health could worsen further without immediate intervention.
Legal Obstacles and Denial of Rights
Legal challenges have compounded Gambaryan’s plight. Between July 26th and August 14th, his legal team was denied access to him, severely hindering their ability to prepare for his trial. Although a brief five-minute visit was allowed on August 15th, subsequent attempts by his legal team to see him have been blocked. This denial of access contravenes the Nigerian Constitution, which guarantees the right to legal representation.
The U.S. Embassy has also struggled to reach Gambaryan, as his inability to walk has prevented him from meeting visitors in the designated area. This isolation has heightened concerns about his well-being and the conditions of his detention.
Delays in Legal Proceedings
The legal proceedings against Gambaryan have been delayed, with the court going into recess on July 16th. Although an application to hear the case during the recess was approved, the next hearing is not scheduled until September 2nd. The prolonged delays in his trial have only added to the uncertainty surrounding his case.
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Personal and Family Impact
Gambaryan’s prolonged detention has taken a significant toll on his personal life. He has missed important family milestones, including his son’s fifth birthday, his own 40th birthday, and his wedding anniversary. As his wife’s birthday on August 31st approaches, his continued absence is a source of deep distress for his family.
Plea for Release and International Attention
His wife, Yuki Gambaryan, has issued an emotional plea for his release, highlighting the severe physical and mental toll his detention has taken on him. She has called for immediate medical intervention and his release before irreversible damage occurs.
Gambaryan’s case has drawn international attention, with his family and supporters urging both the U.S. and Nigerian governments to act quickly to ensure his health and rights are protected. As his next court date approaches, the pressure mounts for a resolution to his ongoing detention.
