Interpol seeks to arrest WikiLeaks owner Julian Assange

Julian Assange is facing an arrest as Interpol has issued a Red Notice in his name. The global police agency seeks to arrest the WikiLeaks owner for suspected sex crimes just two days after his website started publishing some 250,000 highly embarrassing diplomatic cables. The worldwide wanted poster says an arrest warrant has been issued by the International Public Prosecution Office in Gothenburg, Sweden. Officials there said two weeks ago that they would seek his arrest in connection with allegations he had nonconsensual sex with two women while visiting that country in August.

Meantime, Assange regarded the move as ridiculous saying it “appears to be highly irregular and some kind of legal circus.” Besides, attorneys for Assange reported that he has already cooperated with Swedish investigators and is willing to continue doing so. On Tuesday, they appealed to Sweden's Supreme Court to overturn an earlier ruling that he be detained for questioning.

Assange has admitted to having sex with two women in Sweden, but he has said the relations were consensual.

The bulletin issued by the Interpol comes several days after the Washington Post reported that federal officials are investigating whether Assange committed espionage or broke other US laws in orchestrating Sunday's massive leak. The scandal had repercussions in the world community as the exposed frank diplomatic communications frequently contradict official positions on international relations.

The Swedish investigation came as Assange was applying for a permit to live and work in Sweden, considered by many to be a legal haven for journalists and whistleblowers. He has also suggested seeking sanctuary in Switzerland. On Monday, Ecuador's government offered him residence in that country.

Assange is said to be hiding at a secret location somewhere outside of London, The Guardian reported.