

The Company Man: Binance exec detained in Nigeria breaks his silence
10 snips Feb 11, 2025
Nick Fountain, the insightful host of Planet Money, joins Dina Temple-Raston for a gripping conversation with Tigran Gambaryan, a former IRS investigator turned Binance executive. Tigran recounts his harrowing eight-month detention in Nigeria, revealing shocking conditions in prison and the psychological toll of isolation. He discusses the complexities of navigating crypto regulations and the U.S. diplomatic efforts that led to his release. This story sheds light on the personal and political challenges at the intersection of cryptocurrency and international relations.
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Tigran's Detention
- Tigran Gambaryan, a former IRS investigator and Binance executive, was detained in Nigeria for eight months.
- This podcast details his experience, from the initial detainment to his eventual release.
Crypto Tracking Pioneer
- Tigran Gambaryan revolutionized high-tech crime fighting by tracing crypto transactions.
- He later joined Binance to help law enforcement, showcasing crypto's potential for transparency.
Trip to Nigeria Turns into Detention
- Tigran went to Nigeria to meet with officials and demonstrate the utility of cryptocurrencies.
- Instead, he was detained, accused of destroying the Nigerian economy, and held as collateral.