Thai minister defends Al Arqam

Tue, 20 Sep 1994 | Source: AFP

BANGKOK (AFP): Deputy Interior Minister Den Tohmeena has defended the controversial Al Arqam Moslem sect, saying the group not only caused no trouble in Thailand but had brought in investments.

Den made his statements ahead of a two-day visit by Malaysian Deputy Premier Anwar Ibrahim, whose government has banned Al Arqam and arrested key leaders under the Internal Security Act which allows detention without trial.

The arrests were made when Thailand deported Al Arqam leader Ashaari Muhammad and top aides after Malaysia invalidated their passports.

Den said Al Arqam was not illegal in Thailand and had "never caused us any trouble during their stay," his secretary quoted him as saying.

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