Updated

A judge in El Salvador has issued an arrest order for former President Francisco Flores, who faces charges of embezzlement, illegal enrichment and disobedience.

Judge Marta Rosales on Tuesday asked Interpol for help in arresting Flores, who authorities believe has left El Salvador and could be in Panama.

The 53-year-old Flores was charged last week with embezzling $5.3 million while he was president from 1999 to 2004. He is also charged with mismanaging $10 million that was donated a decade ago by Taiwan's government during his presidency.

Flores has denied wrongdoing. He says he turned the money over to the intended state projects but has offered no proof of the handover.