Assange to remain in custody for 48 hours

12-15-2010 08:24 BJT

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WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has returned to a London jail pending an appeal over a decision to free him on 360-thousand US dollars bail for alleged sex crimes.

British judge Howard Riddle had initially granted Julian Assange bail.

But prosecutors, representing Swedish authorities,challenged the decision before the Wikileaks founder had left the court in central London.

That means the 39-year-old Australian will remain in custody for at least another 48 hours. Mark Stephens, a lawyer for Assange, accused Swedish authorities of harassing his client.

Mark Stephens said, "Finally after two hours we have heard that the Swedes won't abide by the umpire's decision and they want to put Mr Assange through yet more trouble, more expense, more hurdles. They clearly will not spare any expense but to keep Mr Assange."

LONDON, ENGLAND - DECEMBER 14: Protesters demonstrate outside the City of Westminster Magistrates Court where Julian Assange is attending an extradition hearing on December 14, 2010 in London, England. Mr Assange, who founded the Wikileaks website, is expected to seek bail during his extradition hearings. (Photo by Oli Scarff/Getty Images)