WikiLeaks’ Assange marks 3 years inside embassy; police say operation has cost $17.6 million

LONDON – Julian Assange is marking the third anniversary of his stay inside Ecuador’s London embassy.

The WikiLeaks founder entered the building on June 19, 2012, to avoid extradition to Sweden for questioning about alleged sexual assaults.

British police stand outside, ready to arrest him if he leaves. London’s Metropolitan Police says the operation has cost 11.1 million pounds ($17.6 million) through April.

Sweden wants to question Assange over alleged rape, sexual molestation and coercion involving two Swedish women. Assange denies the allegations and believes extradition to Sweden is merely the first step in efforts to bring him to the U.S. over WikiLeaks’ secret-spilling activities.

Swedish prosecutors say they are willing to interview Assange at the Ecuador embassy in June or July.

Assange supporters were to rally outside the embassy Friday.

News from © The Associated Press, . All rights reserved.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Join the Conversation!

Want to share your thoughts, add context, or connect with others in your community?

Create a free account

The Associated Press

The Associated Press is an independent global news organization dedicated to factual reporting. Founded in 1846, AP today remains the most trusted source of fast, accurate, unbiased news in all formats and the essential provider of the technology and services vital to the news business. More than half the world’s population sees AP journalism every day.

Related Articles