Billionaire Saudi Prince Alwaleed bin Talal, who had been held in a luxury hotel since November in a wide-reaching anti-corruption probe that has been shrouded in secrecy and intrigue, was released on Saturday, according to three of his associates. Prince Alwaleed's associates, who include a relative, told The Associated Press his terms of release were not immediately known. Prince Alwaleed was among at least 11 princes detained in the probe, including two sons of the late King Abdullah. The crown prince, who has consolidated power rapidly since his father's ascension to the throne three years ago, has demonstrated "he's not afraid to step on some toes," Cafiero said. "Should the released detainees cross the crown prince again — perhaps by showing disloyalty to his vision through their business decisions — they could well find themselves back in fetters," a Stratfor brief said.

Source: ABC News January 27, 2018 12:34 UTC