German public prosecutors launch VW probe

German public prosecutors have launched a preliminary criminal inquiry into the pollution cheating scandal that has engulfed auto giant Volkswagen.

"In connection with the allegations of emission gas manipulation in VW diesel engines, the public prosecutors of Brunswick are considering launching a probe against management employees at Volkswagen," the prosecutors said in a statement.

It said they would first examine all possible information and evaluate a number of legal suits that have already been filed against the company by private individuals.