US requests extradition of Polanski: Swiss government

The US has officially requested the extradition of film-maker Roman Polanski, the Swiss government said Friday.

The US has officially requested the extradition of film-maker Roman Polanski, the Swiss government said Friday.

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Polanski was arrested in Zurich Sep 26, on the basis of a US warrant issued in 1978. The Franco-Polish director is accused of giving drugs and alcohol to a minor and engaging in unlawful sexual acts.

The Swiss Federal Office of Justice received the formal extradition request Thursday evening from the US embassy in Bern.

The federal government would pass the case to the Canton of Zurich, where Polanski is being held, to arrange a hearing regarding extradition to the US.