Bomb suspects not ready for plea

JAKARTA: The trial of a Malaysian man charged in connection with a bomb attack on a Catholic church was adjourned for a week on Thursday, to give the defense more time to prepare its arguments.

The East Jakarta District Court adjourned the trial of Nor Misuari, alias Nurdin, who is charged with the illegal possession and use of explosives.

The explosives were allegedly used to bomb the Santa Anna Catholic Church in Duren Sawit, East Jakarta in July, 2001.

Lawyer Rusdi Matulatuwa said after the hearing the defense needed more time to construct their arguments.

He said his team would be ready next week.

The prosecution has demanded a sentence of 15 years in prison for Nor, who it says assembled and brought bombs to the church during a Sunday mass on the morning of July 22, 2001. -- JP