On May 23, 2024, the trial of Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan took an unexpected turn at the Federal High Court in Abuja when Gambaryan collapsed during the proceedings, online news platform Punch reported. The dramatic incident occurred shortly after the court registrar called for the continuation of the trial. As the trial commenced, Gambaryan, who typically sat at the back, did not step forward to the dock. Noticing this, Justice Nwite inquired about his whereabouts.
One of Gambaryan’s defense lawyers, who was seated beside him, assisted him towards the dock. However, as they made their way, Gambaryan slumped and had to be seated in the front row.
Mark Mordi (SAN), Gambaryan’s lawyer, informed the court that his client had been unwell and that a written application had been submitted to notify the court of his condition. “My lord, the case may not certainly proceed today,” Mordi stated. Throughout the proceeding, Gambaryan rested on the arm of the chair.
This development follows Gambaryan’s previous absence from his arraignment on tax evasion charges filed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service. These charges, involving Gambaryan, his colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla (currently at large), and Binance Holdings Limited, had already caused delays in the legal process.
At the last court session, Justice Nwite dismissed Gambaryan’s bail application, citing concerns that he posed a flight risk similar to Anjarwalla. Both executives and Binance Holdings Limited face serious charges of money laundering and terrorism financing brought by Nigeria’s Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Gambaryan is currently held at the Kuje Correctional Centre as the trial continues amidst these dramatic and challenging circumstances.
