UK court allows Assange extradition

Prasun SonwalkarLondon, Feb 24 (PTI) A British court today ruled thatWikileaks founder Julian Assange can be extradited to Swedento face sexual assault allegations.

Delivering the verdict, Belmarsh Magistrates CourtJudge Howard Riddle said, "I must order that Mr Assange beextradited to Sweden."39-year-old Assange, wearing a dark suit and tie, satstony-faced in the dock as the decision was read out.

Assange, who denies the allegations, will appealagainst the ruling, delivered following a hearing two weeksago.

Wikileaks made headlines around the world with thepublication of sensitive material from governments andhigh-profile organisations, including leaked US diplomaticcables.

Assange was arrested on December 7 under a EuropeanArrest Warrant, and spent nine days in Wandsworth prisonbefore being released on bail.