Romanian Prime Minister Victor Ponta has been charged with several counts of corruption in a long-running investigation, prosecutors say, the BBC reports.

He faces charges of fraud, tax evasion and money laundering dating back to when he was a lawyer before he became prime minister in 2012, the country’s anti-corruption agency DNA said.

Some of his property has been seized pending the outcome of the case, the agency added.

Mr Ponta denies any wrongdoing.

Mr Ponta resigned as leader of the governing Social Democratic party on Sunday, saying he needed time to prepare his defence, but will continue to fulfil his duties as prime minister.

He is accused of receiving the equivalent of around €55,000 from a political ally and MP.