Boli claims innocence over fraud probe

Former France international defender Basile Boli, under investigation by prosecutors here for embezzlement and handling stolen goods, said on Thursday that he had been “unfairly accused”.

In a statement sent to AFP, the former Marseille centre-back said he left the Brigade for the Repression of Economic Crime (BRDE) on Wednesday afternoon after being questioned over the activities of the Undertaking and Succeeding in Africa (ERA) foundation that he set up.

“I only regret that the news of my being taken into custody was made public,” said Boli, who spent 36 hours in custody after initially being detained on Tuesday.

“Believing myself to be unfairly accused, I try to think of my attachment and my devotion to the African continent.

“I am more than ever convinced of ERA’s mission: bringing France and Africa together with a view to the co-development of these two cultures.

“It’s why I will continue to bring my modest contribution to this mission that is so close to my heart.”

A judicial source revealed on Thursday morning that “the investigation” into ERA’s accounts, which was launched in February this year, will “be pursued”.

At the end of the investigation, prosecutors could decide to close the file without further action, open criminal proceedings before a judge or take the case before a criminal court with a view to a trial.

ERA was set up to help African migrants re-settle in their home countries.

Boli, 42, is most famous for scoring the winning goal in Marseille’s 1993 Champions League triumph over AC Milan.

He also had spells at Auxerre, Monaco, Scottish giants Rangers and Japanese outfit Urawa Red Diamonds before going into politics.