Report: Plane carrying ex-president of Panama, on corruption charges, lands at Shannon

It is being reported that the private plane of the former president of Panama touched down in Shannon Airport this morning.

Ricardo Martinelli, whose term as president finished last July, is facing charges of corruption.

Panamian newspaper La Prensa is reporting that his private plane landed in Shannon from Canada shortly before 3.30am this morning, but left later heading for London.

The aircraft had made several stops after leaving Guatemala city on Thursday, where Martinelli had attended a meeting of the Central American Parliament.

It is understood Ireland has no extradition agreement with Panama.

Martinelli left Panama the day the Supreme Court there launched an investigation into alleged corruption into the awarding of public contracts.

His spokesperson announced that the former president, who has claimed he is the victim of political persecution, would undertake an international tour.

A spokesperson for the Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade said: "The Department can confirm that Ireland does not have a bilateral extradition agreement with Panama.

"Any extradition requests received are considered by the appropriate Irish authority, the Department of Justice and Equality, in accordance with our international obligations."