Lebanon's Ex-Central Bank Chief Riad Salameh Arrested Over Financial Crimes
Salameh, who led the central bank for three decades, faces multiple charges of embezzlement, money laundering, and fraud.
- Riad Salameh is accused of embezzling over $110 million through financial crimes involving Optimum Invest.
- He has denied all accusations, claiming his wealth comes from legitimate sources.
- Salameh's arrest marks his first detention despite years of allegations and international arrest warrants.
- The charges are separate from previous accusations involving another firm linked to his brother.
- Lebanon's financial system has been in turmoil since 2019, with Salameh widely blamed for the crisis.