French ex-leader Sarkozy held over influence claims

French ex-President Nicolas Sarkozy has been detained for questioning over alleged influence peddling. Mr Sarkozy is being held at Nanterre, near Paris, in an unprecedented step against a former president. Mr Sarkozy's lawyer was questioned on Monday on suspicion of seeking inside information about a case against the former leader. The latest developments are seen as a blow to Mr Sarkozy's attempts to challenge for the presidency in 2017.
Background:
French ex-President Sarkozy held over influence claims [BBC]
French ex-president Sarkozy held for questioning over inquiry leaks [Reuters]