Chinese activist Weiwei released on bail

Renowned Chinese activist artist Ai Weiwei has been released on bail after authorities said he confessed to tax evasion.

The state-run Xinhua News Agency said his poor health was also a factor in his release Wednesday.

It said had shown a “good attitude in confessing his crimes” and repeatedly pledged to pay back taxes he owed.

A company linked to Mr Ai, Beijing Fake Cultural Development Ltd., evaded a “huge amount” of taxes and intentionally destroyed accounting documents, it said. Mr Ai’s family and supporters have dismissed similar accusations in the past.

Mr Ai helped design the Bird’s Nest Olympic stadium. Famed for his irreverence toward authority, he was picked up at Beijing’s airport on April 3 and was held outside Beijing.