Conviction of Abu Bakar Bashir

Media release

Canberra

16 June 2011

The Government welcomes the conviction of Abu Bakar Bashir today by an Indonesian court for terrorism offences.

The 72 year old Bashir was sentenced to 15 years' imprisonment.

At this time, our thoughts go first and foremost to the families of the more than 110 Australians who have died as a result of terrorist attacks over the past ten years.

The Australian Government hopes this conviction brings some measure of justice to the families of the victims.

The Government of President Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono has demonstrated firm resolve in the fight against terrorism.

Abu Bakar Bashir's arrest and successful prosecution were the result of effective work by Indonesian authorities and full credit goes to them.

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