Jordanian authorities arrest online journalist

[April 24, 2012]  AMMAN, Jordan (AP) -- Jordanian prosecutors say authorities have detained a journalist for publishing online statements alleging misconduct by royal officials.

The State Security court's chief prosecutor ordered the detention of Jamal Muhtaseb for 14 days pending investigation, according to a statement from the court obtained Tuesday.

Muhtaseb published allegations by a lawmaker saying the Royal Court, the office of Jordan's monarchy, instructed parliament not to refer to trial a former minister accused of corruption in a housing scheme backed by King Abdullah II.

The editor of Gerasanews.com also faces charges of disseminating "anti-regime sentiment," the statement said.

The head of Jordan's Press Association Tareq al-Momeni says his Monday arrest violates press freedom.

[Associated Press]

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