Former Ivorian leader Laurent Gbagbo faces first charges

IVORY Coast's former leader, Laurent Gbagbo, has been charged with aggravated theft and embezzlement.

Public prosecutor Simplice Kouadio Koffi said former first lady Simone Gbagbo was also charged with economic crimes. Trial dates have not been set.

Gbagbo was arrested by forces loyal to president Alassane Ouattara in April.

His refusal to concede defeat in November plunged the nation into post-election violence that killed thousands.