Pope John Paul's would-be assassin released from prison, may face military service
January 18, 2010
Mehmet Ali Agca, who attempted to assassinate Pope John Paul II on May 13, 1981, has been released from a Turkish prison. After spending 19 years in an Italian prison for the attempted assassination, Agca served a 10-year sentence in Turkey for the murder of a journalist.
Mr. Agca has been taken to a military academy to evaluate his readiness for mandatory military service. “Agca is shocked and disappointed that he might be conscripted into military service,” said his attorney. “He says it is against his religious and philosophical beliefs to bear arms. There will also be difficulties in protecting Mehmet Ali Agca’s life where thousands of people carry weapons.”
For all current news, visit our News home page.
Further information:
- Man who shot Pope John Paul II freed from Turkish jail (BBC)
- Agca may be conscripted into military service after release (Today’s Zaman)
All comments are moderated. To lighten our editing burden, only current donors are allowed to Sound Off. If you are a current donor, log in to see the comment form; otherwise please support our work, and Sound Off!
