A Lebanese judge has issued an arrest warrant for Riad Salameh, the former governor of Lebanon’s Central Bank, following an extensive questioning related to embezzlement allegations. Salameh, 75, who served as the Central Bank chief for over three decades, faces multiple charges, including embezzlement, money laundering, and tax evasion, both locally and internationally.
The judge’s decision came after Salameh’s interrogation, which lasted two and a half hours. The arrest warrant is part of a broader investigation into claims that Salameh amassed significant wealth during his tenure. Despite his repeated denials of any wrongdoing, the former official is now under scrutiny for allegedly embezzling more than $40 million.
Authorities initially detained Salameh last Tuesday, marking the first time he was held in connection with these allegations. The following day, Lebanon’s financial prosecutor opened legal proceedings against him for alleged embezzlement, illicit enrichment, and money laundering.
Salameh’s office has asserted that he has cooperated fully with Lebanese judicial authorities before and after his official duties ended. He also holds French nationality and is perceived as a central figure in Lebanon’s severe economic downturn, described by the World Bank as one of the most devastating in recent history.
Protests erupted outside Beirut’s justice palace, where demonstrators voiced their anger and frustration, branding Salameh as a criminal. Signs read, “No to your corruption, conspiracy, indifference, yes to justice.”
Previously, Germany and France had issued arrest warrants for Salameh, which Germany later rescinded. In August of the previous year, coordinated sanctions against him were announced by the United States, Canada, and Britain. Salameh has consistently defended his financial standing as stemming from private investments and his former role at Merrill Lynch, claiming he is being used as a scapegoat for Lebanon’s economic collapse.
