Three Inmates Taken Into Custody After Threatening France's Sarkozy

PARIS, Oct 23 (Bernama-dpa) -- Three inmates at Paris's La Santé prison were taken into police custody over alleged threats against former French president Nicolas Sarkozy following his imprisonment, German Press Agency (dpa) reported, citing local media.

A video circulating on social media reportedly shows insults and threats directed at Sarkozy upon his arrival at the prison, several French broadcasters reported, citing the public prosecutor's office.

The footage was reportedly filmed by an inmate.

According to the reports, the public prosecutor has opened an investigation into death threats. A search was also carried out, during which two mobile phones were confiscated.

Sarkozy, 70, began serving a five-year sentence on Tuesday. He was convicted of having participated in a criminal organisation in connection with alleged campaign finances from the late Libyan dictator Moamer Gaddafi.

His lawyer said the former head of state is being held in an isolated and specially protected area of the prison.

Sarkozy is not receiving any special treatment and a release under conditions has been requested, according to his lawyer.

--BERNAMA-dpa