Riad Salameh Detained Amid Embezzlement Probe

Riad Salameh, the former governor of Lebanon's central bank, appeared in court following his arrest on charges of embezzling up to $42 million in public funds. He faces serious accusations including forgery and illicit enrichment, linked to a Ponzi scheme that contributed to Lebanon's financial crisis in 2019. Salameh has pleaded not guilty and has been ordered to remain in detention as the investigation progresses, marking a rare moment of accountability for a senior Lebanese official. The judge's decision on whether to release him or keep him detained is pending after the initial hearing. Public interest remains high, with protests against Salameh's alleged crimes reflecting widespread anger over the financial collapse that left many Lebanese in dire economic straits. If convicted, Salameh could face up to 10 years in prison.