Brazilian prosecutors are filing charges against ex-President Lula da Silva in a money laundering investigation, officials say, the BBC reports.

He denies any wrongdoing and says the charges are politically motivated.

The accusations are part of a major corruption investigation at the state oil company, Petrobras.

Lula and his wife, Marisa Leticia, face questions over the alleged ownership of a seafront penthouse in the exclusive resort of Guaruja.

They are among 16 people who are formally being accused of money laundering by Sao Paulo prosecutors.