Horta denies involvement in terrorist activities

KRUMBACH, Austria (Antara): East Timor separatist and Nobel laureate Ramos Horta has admitted knowing members of Associacio Socialista de Timor (AST), accused of making bombs in Demak, Central Java, but denies supporting the organization.

"I have no connection at all. They were even furious with me at one time for not giving them my support," Horta said here Tuesday when asked about his alleged involvement with the terrorist group.

"I am totally against the use of bombs for anything," said Horta, who is attending the ongoing third-round of the All Inclusive Intra-East Timorese Dialog (AIETD).

He said he knew nothing about an Australian being sent to Semarang to train people in bomb making.

Indonesia's military spokesman, Brig. Gen. Wahab Mokodongan, told journalists in Jakarta that Horta was indirectly involved in the group's activities.

A homemade bomb which was being made by the AST exploded in Demak on Sept. 13.

The AST is said to be headed by its Secretary-General Avelino Maria Coelho da Silva, 35, alias Dr. Shalar Kossi; and Nuno Vicente Pereira Saldanha.

East Timor Governor Abilio Soares, who is among the 34 people attending the dialog, said there was evidence to support the accusation.