TAIPEI - DOZENS of supporters of Taiwan's former president Chen Shui-bian clashed with riot police outside a court where he was appearing on corruption charges on Tuesday.

The angry crowd, holding placards with slogans like 'Release A-Bian (Chen's nickname) immediately', were stopped as they tried to push their way into Taipei District Court.

A man was overpowered by several riot police armed with wooden clubs and shields, but was later released. No arrest was made.

Inside the courtroom, a supporter was evicted after he shouted at the judges to let more people in, interrupting a cross-examination session with Chen, two of his former aides and a former presidential office official.

Chen, who left office last year after a maximum eight years, stands accused of embezzling public funds, money laundering, accepting bribes on a land deal, influence peddling and forgery.

His wife, son, daughter-in-law, and brother-in-law have already been charged with various offences in connection with the far-reaching case which has captivated Taiwan for months.

The former president, who has been detained since December, dismissed his lawyers last month to protest against his detention and trial which he claimed was a political witch hunt.

The pro-independence Chen insists that the charges against him are orchestrated by the new administration of President Ma Ying-jeou, who favours better relations with China.

Under Taiwanese law, there are no limits on how long Chen can be detained. -- AFP