Taipei  - Taiwan's ex-president Chen Shui-bian, who was hospitalized after being on a hunger strike since November 12, was sent back to the Taipei Detention Centre Wednesday, a hospital spokesman said.

"After treatment, his conditions, including high blood pressure, stomach and other problems, are stable. We have notified the Taipei Detention Centre he is fit to leave the hospital," said Dr Yang Chang-ping, spokesman of the Panchiao Hospital.

He said Chen appeared calm when told he would be sent back for detention.

About 100 supporters of Chen, who rallied outside the hospital, shouted "injustice" and "political persecution" as police escorted Chen back to the detention centre.

Chen was admitted to the Far Eastern Memorial Hospital Sunday evening for stomach ache, nausea and chest pain after having fasted for five days since he was detained at the detention centre last Wednesday on suspicion of embezzlement, bribe-taking and money laundering.

He was given nutrition shots at the Far Eastern hospital but was transferred to the Panchiao Hospital Monday for more examinations and and possible force-feeding, if he continues to fast.

Dr Yang of Panchiao Hospital said Chen refused to eat at the hospital, but agreed to receive treatment, including necessary medication to support his vital systems.

On Monday, the lawyer for Chen applied for his release from detention as the former leader's hunger strike is threatening his life.

He said Chen insists on his innocence. "For the sake of his health, I have applied for Chen's release from detention," said lawyer Cheng Wen-lung.

Chen, 57, who ended his second four-year presidential term in May, is suspected of embezzling millions of US dollars under the pretext of using the money as a "secret diplomatic fund" to launch or strengthen ties with foreign countries.

He is also suspected of laundering 21 million US dollars abroad, and accepting millions of dollars in bribes from Taiwan businessmen.

Prosecutors say they intend to indict him soon on at least five charges that carry a maximum jail term of 30 years. He could be held for several months before standing trial. (dpa)