TOKYO, Apr 3 (AFP): Ousted Nissan boss Carlos Ghosn took to Twitter on Wednesday vowing to tell his side of the story, as Tokyo prosecutors reportedly weighed fresh charges over suspected financial misconduct.
In the latest twist in a rollercoaster of a case, Japanese media reported authorities were probing a possible aggravated breach of trust charge related to at least $32 million in Nissan funds transferred to a distributor in Oman.
Some of that money is believed to have been used to buy a luxury boat allegedly used by Ghosn and his family, according to a source familiar with the matter.
If Tokyo prosecutors were to proceed, it would be the fourth criminal charge against the 65-year-old former high-flying auto executive, who denies all allegations.
Ghosn already faces three charges of financial misconduct over allegations he under-reported his compensation and sought to transfer personal losses to Nissan's books.
Tokyo district prosecutors were discussing the case with more senior colleagues before deciding whether to move ahead, Japanese media said.
Prosecutors were not able to confirm the reports immediately but were due to hold a media briefing on Thursday.
Shortly after the reports emerged, a verified Twitter account in Ghosn's name said he would be speaking to journalists next week.
"I'm getting ready to tell the truth about what's happening. Press conference on Thursday, April 11," said the tweet, sent early Wednesday afternoon in English then Japanese.
A spokeswoman for the executive later confirmed the news conference in a statement to AFP.
The tweet sparked questions over his bail conditions -- which was thought to include a ban on internet access -- but his lead lawyer Junichiro Hironaka later insisted his client was within his rights.
