Tigran Gambaryan, a former IRS agent renowned for his groundbreaking work in cryptocurrency investigations and prominently featured in the book Tracers in the Dark by Andy Greenberg, has become a victim of Nigerian authorities. Known for his exceptional skill in tackling financial crimes involving digital currencies, Gambaryan earned acclaim for his significant contributions to uncovering complex frauds and shaping effective strategies against crypto-related illicit activities.
Gambaryan’s career is marked by his decisive role in dismantling several infamous illegal and darknet organizations. Notably, he was instrumental in the takedown of AlphaBay, one of the largest dark web marketplaces specializing in illegal drugs, weapons, and stolen data. His efforts also contributed to the dismantling of Hansa Market another major darknet platform that facilitated criminal activities and was used by various illicit actors. His work against these platforms not only disrupted significant criminal enterprises but also had a profound impact on reducing illegal transactions in the dark web.
However, his distinguished career has been marred by a deeply troubling episode: his arrest in Nigeria under egregious circumstances. In February 2024, while on an international assignment, Gambaryan was detained by Nigerian officials in what can only be described as illegal hostage taking. The ridiculous charges against him include allegations of corruption, misconduct, and mishandling sensitive information. Nigerian authorities also allege tax evasion, though these insane claims have been met with widespread skepticism.
Adding to the severity of the situation, Gambaryan’s health has deteriorated significantly while taken hostage. His latest appearance in a Nigerian court saw him in a wheelchair, highlighting the critical state of his well-being. The conditions of his detention have raised serious concerns about his treatment and the lack of proper medical care, further underscoring the inhumane aspects of this illegal hostage taking and denial of bail.
Despite the gravity of the situation, the US Government has done little to secure Gambaryan’s freedom or hold Nigerian authorities accountable for their actions. This lack of effective intervention highlights a concerning gap in diplomatic and legal support for American citizens facing such egregious circumstances abroad.
The actions of Nigerian authorities in this case are not merely alarming but constitute a clear instance of illegal hostage taking. The opaque nature of the legal proceedings and the absence of substantive evidence suggest that the arrest is politically motivated, aimed at undermining Gambaryan’s credibility and discrediting his valuable work. This arrest is a deliberate attempt to obstruct justice and intimidate those who challenge entrenched interests or expose inconvenient truths and prop up a failing government.
The international community and media have rightly condemned this illegal hostage taking. Gambaryan’s case is a stark reminder of the dangers posed by unchecked governmental power and the urgent need for accountability and transparency in global law enforcement practices.
To support Tigran Gambaryan and advocate for his release, the public is encouraged to contact their government representatives. By expressing concern and demanding action, individuals can help ensure that justice is served, and that political manipulation does not derail the pursuit of truth.
Key contacts include:
– Your local Congressional representatives
– Senators and members of Congress
– The U.S. Department of State (for international intervention)
Reaching out to these officials can amplify the call for a fair resolution and contribute to holding Nigerian authorities accountable for their actions.
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Tigran Gambaryan: The Unjust Arrest and the Nigerian Authorities’ Illegal Hostage Taking
