Bashir ‘plotted’ Mega murder, may get death

As Indonesia moves to crack down on terrorism after the Bali bomb blasts, a Muslim cleric under detention would face death penalty if found ...

As Indonesia moves to crack down on terrorism after the Bali bomb blasts, a Muslim cleric under detention would face death penalty if found guilty of the allegations against him, one of his lawyers said on Monday.

Achmad Michdan, representing Abu Bakar Bashir, said the allegations listed in a police letter handed to Bashir in hospital included participation in an assassination plot against President Megawati Sukarnoputri.

The Indonesian government placed Bashir in custody on Friday as it announced new anti-terror regulations following the Bali explosions.

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The letter to Bashir, who denies any links to terrorism or any knowledge of Jemaah Islamiah, said he would also be questioned about his alleged role in several bombings in Jakarta over the past few years and in the illegal possession of firearms and explosives by alleged associates. If he is tried and convicted, Bashir would face death penalty on each crime.

The letter to Bashir made no mention of the Bali blasts, which he has denied any involvement in. Police say he faces questioning about attacks in the capital nearly two years ago.

Bashir has earlier said that the US was behind the Bali attack.

On Monday, Bashir, who says he is just an Islamic teacher, was still in hospital in Solo. (Reuters)