The creators of popular TON-based games like Notcoin and Hamster Kombat have shared messages on social media and in their apps protesting the arrest of Telegram CEO and co-founder Pavel Durov. On Sunday, gamers on Telegram were welcomed by an animated sticker that called out the French authorities for their move to arrest Durov.
The French government arrested the Telegram boss (39) on Saturday evening after arriving from Azerbaijan in his private jet, according to television network TF1. But why did he get arrested? Per multiple reports, Durov is accused of failing to implement moderation measures on his messaging app.
The French authorities argue that Telegram facilitates illegal acts, including child sexual abuse, terrorism, and the sale of stolen goods and narcotics.
While Telegram representatives have yet to release a public statement regarding Durov’s arrest, the news has already spread within the crypto walls, attracting massive reactions from developers and investors.
Telegram Games Want Authorities to Respect the Right to Privacy
Notcoin developer wrote on X that the French government’s move to charge Durov for technology was uncalled for, adding that Telegram users should be allowed to enjoy their right to privacy.
Similarly, Hamster Kombat’s creator said user privacy shouldn’t be treated as a crime. The game’s X account is now pushing the #FREEDUROV. Hamster Kombat, which currently boasts over 280 million players ahead of its most awaited token airdrop, says it won’t stop advocating for the release of Durov.
Meanwhile, the TON Foundation, a nonprofit organization overseeing the development of The Open Network, wonders why the French authorities arrested someone whose “only crime was championing for decentralized internet and freedom of speech.”
Prominent Individuals Call Out the French Government
It is worth pointing out that the backlash to the Telegram CEO’s arrest isn’t limited to the crypto community. Several notable personalities have called out the French government.
Whistleblower Edward Snowden directed harsh words to French President Emmanuel Macron on Sunday. He accused the French leader of taking Durov hostage in an attempt to access private communications on Telegram. Elon Musk, on the other hand, said the French authorities had violated human rights of speech by arresting the Telegram boss.
