Alleged al-Qaida chief on trial for terrorism
The Indonesian cleric accused of heading the al-Qaida-linked terror group behind the 2002 Bali bombings proclaimed his innocence as he went on trial today, while prosecutors alleged he spurred followers in “the waging of war” against America and its allies.
About 70 supporters of Abu Bakar Bashir shouted “God is great” when the 66-year-old cleric arrived at court wearing white Islamic robes and prayer cap and flanked by armed anti-terror police. It was the second time the frail, white-haired cleric has faced terror charges in two years.
