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Prosecutors question Chen in jail

(China Daily)
Updated: 2008-11-22 09:45

TAIPEI: Taiwan prosecutors said they questioned jailed former leader Chen Shui-bian over graft allegations on Friday, as he continued a hunger strike for a 10th day.

Taiwan's former president Chen Shui-bian attends a news conference on the state affairs fund scandal in Taipei October 31, 2008. [Agencies]

Chen, 57, has refused solid food since Nov 12 - the day judges ordered him jailed. He denies allegations of money laundering and taking bribes.

Spokesman Chen Yun-nan said a team of prosecutors questioned Chen Shui-bian at Tucheng Jail outside Taipei.

"He was questioned about all aspects of his case," Chen Yun-nan said. "He seemed in good spirits."

Earlier Friday, jail official Lee Ta-chu said Chen was still refusing food and only drinking water.

Chen was rushed to a hospital last Sunday after suffering from an irregular heartbeat. He was discharged and returned to jail on Wednesday.

Chen has not been charged with a crime. He can be held up to four months without being indicted under a law intended to prevent suspects from colluding with alleged co-conspirators.

On the same day, prosecutors also questioned four other suspects, including Chen's former secretary and close friends of his wife Wu Shu-jen.

Agencies