Son of Angola ex-president detained in corruption probe

The son of Angola ex-president has been detained in connection with an investigation into corruption and other crimes.

José Filomeno dos Santos is the highest profile figure to be held in custody.

This is since President Joao Lourenco succeeded former leader Jose Eduardo dos Santos a year ago vowing to tackle widespread corruption.

ANGOP said he had been arrested for “being part of a criminal association, irregular acceptance of advantages, fraud, embezzlement and corruption, among others.”

In March, the younger Dos Santos, was charged with fraud relating to a $500 million transaction out of an account belonging to the central bank.

Reuters was unable to contact the former head of Angola’s $5 billion sovereign wealth fund after the March charges were laid.