Macedonian Prime Minister Nikola Gruevski on Saturday accused opposition leader Zoran Zaev of plans to topple the government by blackmail, dpa reported. In a live broadcast, Gruievski alleged that Zaev contacted him repeatedly, demanded his resignation and threatened to publish documents compromising senior government officials. The premier said that the authorities have taken action against Zaev. The Interior Ministry confirmed that it has launched criminal proceedings against four people who allegedly attempted to "disrupt constitutional order" by extorting government officials. A prosecutor may bring charges in the next step. Three people were arrested, including former secret police chief Zoran Verusevski, the ministry said. Zaev was not arrested, but his passport was seized. -- SPA 20:38 LOCAL TIME 17:38 GMT تغريد