Sarkozy detained during probe into corruption claims

Former French president Nicolas Sarkozy was detained and reportedly questioned by financial investigators in a corruption probe that could cloud his chances of a political comeback.

He was being held on suspicions he used his influence to secure leaked details of an inquiry into alleged irregularities in his 2007 election campaign.

The detention — a very unusual move for such a high-level figure — dominated French news broadcasts. The investigation is the latest in a string of probes to target the former leader.