Former Taiwan president led to court in handcuffs

Former Taiwan President Chen Shui-bian on Tuesday was led from a prosecutor’s office in handcuffs after being questioned for five hours on money-laundering allegations.

Taiwan television stations, which broadcast images of Chen being taken away, said that Chen arrived at Taipei district court, where a judge could order his detention.

Chen could be heard shouting, “This is a political persecution” and “Cheers for Taiwan,” as he was being led away.

Chen said Monday night he believed his arrest was imminent. He linked it to attempts by newly installed Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou to placate China, following violent protests last week against a visiting Chinese envoy.

Chen, who has denied any wrongdoing, is an ardent supporter of Taiwanese independence, a cause decried by Beijing, which insists that Taiwan is part of Chinese territory. China has threatened war if the island moves to make its 59-year break with the mainland permanent.