Chinese State media have released a statement saying that the artist Ai Weiwei has been released, having reportedly confessed to crimes.
The internationally renowned artist and political activist was arrested at Beijing Airport on 3 April, and has been held in a secret location without access to a lawyer.
Xinhua news agency has reported that a confession of tax evasion, and Ai’s poor health were both factors in his release. No current whereabouts were given, and his family have not been formally notified.
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The report adds that “Ai has shown a good attitude in confessing his crimes” and he reportedly pledged to pay back taxes he owed, having been linked to a company called “Beijing Fake Cultural Development Ltd” that owed a “huge amount” of tax.
No information was given about any of Ai’s colleagues, who went missing at the same time.
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Ai Weiwei’s contemporary art sculptures Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads is currently on display in the courtyard of Somerset House, and an exhibition of his work at the Lisson Gallery runs until July 16.