Ex-trump aide accused of witness tampering

US prosecutors have accused Paul Manafort, Donald Trump’s former campaign chairman, of attempting to coach witnesses into giving favourable testimony, as he faces charges of money laundering, bank fraud and illegal lobbying.

A motion submitted by Robert Mueller, who is heading up the main investigation into alleged Russian election meddling, said Mr Manafort had contacted witnesses by phone and encrypted text messaging and such activities amounted to a violation of his bail terms, meaning he could face jail time ahead of his trials.

Mr Manafort, 69, denies all charges.