Montenegro Court Nullifies Terra Founder Do Kwon’s Extradition Decision

Rupam Roy
December 19, 2023
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Terra Founder Do Kwon Extradition Montenegro Court

In a recent turn of events, the Appeals Court of Montenegro has overturned the high court’s decision approving the extradition of Terra founder Do Kwon to the U.S. or South Korea. Meanwhile, the legal saga surrounding Kwon, initially detained over falsified document charges, has taken a new direction.

Notably, this reversal highlights the intricacies of international legal battles and the complexities surrounding the high-profile cryptocurrency entrepreneur.

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Latest Twist In Do Kwon’s Extradition Decision

In a recent development, the Montenegro Appeals Court made a decisive move by accepting the appeal of defense attorneys for Do Kwon. The court annulled the earlier decision of the Higher Court in Podgorica, which had approved the extradition of the Republic of South Korea citizen to face criminal charges in both South Korea and the United States.

Meanwhile, the Higher Court’s initial decision, dated November 17, 2023, determined that the legal prerequisites for Do Kwon’s extradition had been met. However, the Montenegro Court, upon reviewing the appeal, identified a significant violation of criminal procedure provisions, leading to the decision’s cancellation. Notably, the panel highlighted a lack of clear reasons for decisive facts, a flaw that prompted the retrial order.

For context, Kwon, former CEO of Terra, faced arrest and imprisonment in Montenegro on charges related to falsified official documents. Both the U.S. and South Korea sought his extradition for his alleged involvement in the collapse of Terraform Labs, a multi-billion dollar crypto enterprise, in May 2022.

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A Closer Look Into The Report

The Appeals Court, in its detailed explanation, pointed out that the decision to postpone Do Kwon’s extradition due to a prison sentence had been incorrectly handled by the Higher Court. In addition, the Court clarified that such determinations fall under the exclusive jurisdiction of the Minister of Justice, not the court overseeing the extradition process. This violation was deemed significant, contributing to the decision’s revocation.

Additionally, the Appeals Court criticized the High Court for not adhering to Article 16, paragraph 8 of the Law on International Legal Assistance in Criminal Matters. According to the latest notice, the investigating judge’s failure to promptly inform Do Kwon of the extradition reasons and invite him to present his defense was identified as a clear breach of legal procedures.

So, considering the recent developments, if the extradition eventually gains approval in subsequent court proceedings, the ultimate decision rests with Montenegro’s Minister for Justice. The unfolding legal drama adds an extra layer of suspense to Kwon’s future, underscoring the intricate intersection of law, crypto regulation, and international jurisdiction.

Also Read: Pro-XRP Lawyer Sparks XRP Price Debate With Short-Term VS. Long-Term Analysis

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Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
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Why Trust CoinGape

CoinGape has covered the cryptocurrency industry since 2017, aiming to provide informative insights Read more…to our readers. Our journal analysts bring years of experience in market analysis and blockchain technology to ensure factual accuracy and balanced reporting. By following our Editorial Policy, our writers verify every source, fact-check each story, rely on reputable sources, and attribute quotes and media correctly. We also follow a rigorous Review Methodology when evaluating exchanges and tools. From emerging blockchain projects and coin launches to industry events and technical developments, we cover all facets of the digital asset space with unwavering commitment to timely, relevant information.

About Author
About Author
Rupam is a seasoned professional with three years of experience in the financial market, where he has developed a reputation as a meticulous research analyst and insightful journalist. He thrives on exploring the dynamic nuances of the financial landscape. Currently serving as a sub-editor at Coingape, Rupam's expertise extends beyond conventional boundaries. His role involves breaking stories, analyzing AI-related developments, providing real-time updates on the crypto market, and presenting insightful economic news. Rupam's career is characterized by a deep passion for unraveling the complexities of finance and delivering impactful stories that resonate with a diverse audience.
Investment disclaimer: The content reflects the author’s personal views and current market conditions. Please conduct your own research before investing in cryptocurrencies, as neither the author nor the publication is responsible for any financial losses.
Ad Disclosure: This site may feature sponsored content and affiliate links. All advertisements are clearly labeled, and ad partners have no influence over our editorial content.