A judge in Abuja has denied the bail application of Tigran Gambaryan, Vice President of Global Intelligence and Investigations at Binance. Despite Gambaryan’s deteriorating health and medical concerns, the decision contradicts Nigerian legal precedents, as noted in a press release sent by his family.

Gambaryan, a U.S. citizen, and Binance’s Director for West and East Africa, Nadim Anjarwalla, were arrested in February 2024 on charges of tax evasion and money laundering. The company and its top executives vehemently deny the accusations.

Gambaryan’s Health Deterioration

Due to the conditions in prison, Gambaryan’s physical condition has significantly worsened. He suffers from a herniated disc, as well as having had pneumonia, malaria, and tonsillitis. According to his wife, Yuki Gambaryan, he is not receiving the necessary medical care, which is worsening his condition. In September, he appeared in court on crutches after being denied a wheelchair.

Despite this, the court again denied his bail application, marking the second such denial after the first decision in May. Gambaryan’s wife has called on the U.S. State Department to intervene, claiming her husband’s health may suffer irreversible damage.

Wife’s Comments and U.S. Support

In June, U.S. Representatives French Hill and Chrissy Houlahan visited Gambaryan in prison, but their statements about inadequate medical care were refuted by Nigeria’s information minister. However, several medical professionals, including the prison doctor, confirmed that Gambaryan was not receiving adequate treatment.

“We all know Tigran never made decisions at Binance and that he is completely innocent, but I’m not surprised by this denial.”

Context of the Binance Case

Gambaryan’s case is part of a broader investigation into Binance’s activities in Africa. In March 2024, Anjarwalla attempted to secretly leave Nigeria but was extradited from Kenya. At the same time, the company denies all charges related to tax evasion and money laundering.

As a reminder, on September 27, Binance co-founder and former CEO Changpeng Zhao was released from U.S. prison, and earlier this month, the exchange removed its largest shareholder from management.