Bashir, who was ousted and detained in April, is facing charges of illicit possession of foreign currency and accepting gifts in an unofficial manner.

The detective told the court Bashir had made the statement about the money as he was questioned by investigators after his detention.

Bashir – who was in a cage in the courtroom, dressed in traditional white robes and a turban – listened to the testimony but did not comment.

The next session of the trial is scheduled for Saturday.

REUTERS