During Thursday’s trial proceedings of detained Binance executive Tigran Gambaryan at the Federal High Court in Abuja, a startling event unfolded when Gambaryan collapsed in court.
As the court registrar called for the continuation of the trial, Gambaryan, the second defendant, remained seated at the back, prompting the trial judge, Justice Nwite, to inquire about his whereabouts.
Assisted by a lawyer from his defense team, Gambaryan was slowly escorted towards the dock, but he slumped on the way. His lawyer, Mark Mordi (SAN), informed the court that Gambaryan was indisposed, presenting a written application for adjournment.
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Gambaryan’s absence had previously stalled his arraignment on tax evasion charges filed by the Federal Inland Revenue Service, along with his colleague Nadeem Anjarwalla and their firm, Binance Holdings Limited.
Despite dismissal of his bail application due to flight risk, Gambaryan faces charges of money laundering and terrorism financing brought by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission. He remains in custody at Kuje Correctional Centre.
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