Updated

Switzerland is transferring 3.5 million euros ($3.9 million) to Tunisia that had been frozen in connection with a close relative of former President Zine El Abidine Ben Ali.

The Office of the Attorney General of Switzerland ordered the transfer Friday in response to a request from Tunisia.

The Swiss Federal Department of Foreign Affairs says the assets were being sent back with the relative's consent.

Tunisian authorities will determine what to do with the assets.

Switzerland in 2011 froze the assets held there by the toppled Tunisian president and his entourage to prevent the flight of illicit capital.

Switzerland made a first restitution payment to Tunisia in May 2016 of approximately 250,000 Swiss francs.