The family of Tigran Gambaryan, a Nigerian Binance executive detained for six months, has raised serious concerns about his deteriorating health, alleging severe medical negligence during his imprisonment.
Detention and Allegations
Gambaryan was detained by Nigerian authorities for alleged financial crimes, including money laundering, currency speculation, and tax evasion, related to his work with the cryptocurrency exchange Binance. The charges amount to $34 million in financial misconduct. Despite the ongoing legal process, Gambaryan’s family claims that his health has significantly worsened due to a lack of proper medical care.
Deteriorating Health and Medical Negligence
According to Gambaryan’s family, his untreated health conditions have become critical. They report that he suffers from a herniated disc or spinal injury, which has left him unable to walk. The prison, however, has allegedly refused to provide him with a wheelchair, exacerbating his condition. As a result, he now requires blood thinners to prevent blood clots due to his immobility.
The family also claims that Gambaryan has developed severe tonsillitis, a complication arising from untreated malaria and pneumonia, and has been advised to undergo surgery to remove his tonsils. Despite his worsening condition, they allege that he has been denied access to necessary medical care and support.
Legal and Constitutional Violations
The family’s concerns extend beyond medical issues. They allege that Nigerian authorities restricted access to Gambaryan’s legal team for 20 days, from July 26 to August 14, which they argue is a violation of the Nigerian constitution and prison laws. Although authorities eventually permitted a brief five-minute visit to prepare for his trial, they again denied further access.
Additionally, the lack of a wheelchair has reportedly prevented Gambaryan from visiting the U.S. embassy for potential assistance. His family claims that repeated requests for his medical records have been ignored, prompting the issuance of a bench warrant for the arrest of the Nigerian prison doctor.
Circumstances of Detention
Gambaryan’s detention began after he was invited to a meeting by the Nigerian government. Upon arrival, he was allegedly forced to surrender his passport and was then moved to a “guest house,” where he was confined before formal charges were brought against him.
The family of Tigran Gambaryan continues to appeal for international attention and intervention, expressing deep concerns over his health and the legal violations they believe he is facing during his detention. They are calling for urgent medical treatment and a fair legal process to address the serious charges against him.
