Pavel Durov, founder of Telegram, is under formal investigation in France and cannot leave the country, according to a French prosecutor’s statement. The Russian-born billionaire faces allegations of complicity in illegal gang activities, money laundering, and failing to cooperate with authorities.

Durov, who was arrested at a Paris airport, must stay in France under judicial supervision with a bail set at $5.56 million (5 million euros) and report to the police twice a week. He has been released from police custody but has not yet been formally charged.

The French National Office for Minors reported Telegram’s insufficient response to court requests concerning trafficking, hate speech, and pedophilia. The investigation could lead to charges related to Telegram’s role in illegal transactions, potentially resulting in a 10-year prison sentence.

The controversy has drawn criticism from Russia, which views the detention as an attack on free speech. The Kremlin has reassured Russian users about the app’s future. French President Emmanuel Macron has emphasized that the charges are not politically motivated.

Launched in 2013 by Durov and his brother, Telegram boasts over 950 million users. While praised for protecting privacy, it faces criticism for its role in illegal activities. Durov, known as the “Mark Zuckerberg of Russia,” lives in Dubai and holds French citizenship.