Former Lebanese Economy Minister Arrested for Corruption

• Amin Salam was arrested on suspicion of corruption after a three-hour interrogation.
• The charges include embezzlement and signing dubious contracts.
• This is the first arrest of a high-ranking official in Lebanon for corruption since 2003.

This was reported by ABC News, Asharq Al-Awsat.

Minister's Arrest

Former Lebanese Economy Minister Amin Salam was arrested on Wednesday by order of State Prosecutor Jamal al-Hajjar due to multiple corruption suspicions. This occurred after a three-hour interrogation conducted by Internal Security Forces.

Charges

Salam is accused of embezzling state funds, signing dubious contracts, and other financial crimes. According to reports, his arrest was made possible by new evidence that emerged following a complaint from the parliamentary economic committee.

Background

Just two weeks ago, Salam was interrogated at the Palace of Justice in Beirut, but he was released with a residency guarantee. However, new testimony prompted a reopening of the investigation.

Next Steps

The case is set to be transferred to the financial prosecutor's office, which will determine further charges. Salam is not the only one under investigation; the actions of his associates in the ministry are also being scrutinized.

Context

This arrest marks the first detention of a high-ranking official in Lebanon for corruption since 2003. Lebanon is attempting to reform its economy, which has suffered from corruption for many years.

Теги: Близький Схід/Злочинність