Tigran Gambaryan, the detained Binance executive on Thursday slumped at the Federal High Court Abuja during the money laundering trial preferred against him by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
The incident occurred during a trial for foreign exchange contravention and money laundering brought against Gambaryan by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). The trial, presided over by Justice Emeka Nwite, was set to continue when the drama unfolded.
When the court registrar called the case, Gambaryan however remained seated at the back row. Justice Nwite inquired about his whereabouts, which prompted his defense team lawyer to assist Gambaryan towards the dock.
But, Gambaryan slumped and had to be helped into a front-row seat by the lawyer.
Mark Mordi, Gambaryan’s attorney, explained that his client had been unwell and that a written application had been submitted to inform the court of his condition. Mordi emphasized that Gambaryan had been indisposed since the last trial date.
Following Gambaryan’s collapse, Mordi requested an adjournment to allow his client to receive proper medical attention. He informed the court that it would be impossible to proceed with the case under the circumstances.
Justice Nwite had previously denied Gambaryan’s bail application on May 16, citing the EFCC’s evidence that the defendant, currently held at Kuje Correctional Centre, might flee if released on bail.
Throughout the proceedings, Gambaryan remained visibly unwell, resting on the arm of his seat.
Subsequently, the court fixed June 20 and 21 for cross-examination and trial.
