$35.4m money laundering charge: Court denies Binance executive Gambaryan bail

Justice Emeka Nwite of the Federal High Court in Abuja has rejected Tigran Gambaryan’s fresh bail application, dealing a blow to the detained Binance Holdings executive, who faces $35.4 million money laundering charges.

Justice Nwite cited concerns over the Binance Holdings executive’s potential flight risk and the severity of the charges against him.

Gambaryan’s lawyer, Mr. Mark Mordi (SAN), previously argued on September 4 that his client’s health is “perilous.”

He stated that Gambaryan required surgery for a herniated disc and psychiatric care due to depression and anxiety.

Mordi requested a six-week bail for Gambaryan to seek proper medical attention outside the prison, citing inadequate care in custody.

Mr. Ekele Iheanacho, the lawyer for the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), disputed the defense’s claims regarding Tigran Gambary’s health, arguing that they overstated the severity of his condition.

Iheanacho maintained that Gambaryan could receive medical attention while in custody at Kuje Correctional Facility, emphasizing that his health issues did not justify bail.

He said Gambaryan had visited prestigious medical facilities such as the State House Clinic and Nizamiye Hospital, and a medical report from the State House Clinic revealed that he had declined medication and treatment.

He further stated that reports from Nizamiye Hospital showed Gambaryan received comprehensive care and had exhibited no health deterioration.

Iheanacho emphasized that the Nigerian Correctional Service had not proven incapable of managing Gambaryan’s health condition.

He said: “Experts have been engaged, and the NCS is taking care of him. The results so far show no serious illness. Complaints have been sent to the National Security Adviser.”

In his ruling on the motion for bail on medical grounds, Justice Nwite rejected the request, noting that “renowned Nigerian medical experts are already managing the second defendant’s health.”

However, he ordered the Nigerian Correctional Service to refer Gambaryan to a standard hospital in Abuja for treatment for three days to two weeks under security supervision.”

The court then adjourned the case until October 18, 2024, and November 22 and 25, 2024, for continuation of trial.