Noriega in French dock over 'laundering'

A TRIAL has begun of former Panama dictator Manuel Noriega that could send him to jail for another decade after 20 years in US custody.

Noriega is accused in France of laundering cocaine-trafficking profits through French banks.

His lawyer, Olivier Metzner, opened the case yesterday and argued Noriega – deposed in a 1989 US invasion – should be sent back to Panama.

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His lawyers complained about the prison in which he is being held and the way he was extradited from the United States.

After serving 20 years in a Florida prison for drug racketeering and money laundering, he was extradited to Paris in April to face accusations that he tried to hide cocaine profits in French banks.

Since then, Noriega has been held at La Sante prison in southern Paris.

His lawyers also argued his extradition from the US should be annulled because France is not treating him as a prisoner of war.

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In Miami, Noriega had separate quarters in prison and the right to wear his military uniform and insignia.

Lawyer Yves Leberquier said Noriega was being held in Paris in "conditions that are unacceptable".

Noriega's cell measures 7 feet by 10 feet, Mr Leberquier said. He said Noriega had been asking to see a doctor for two months and has not yet seen one. Mr Leberquier said he suffered from blood pressure problems and is paralysed on the left side because of a stroke four years ago.

The trial continues.

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