International news_Jonty Skrufff_21st June 2005

Australia Issues 'Advanced' Bali Terror Alert

Australian authorities urged westerners to avoid Indonesia unless travel is 'absolutely necessary' this week, claiming Islamic terrorists are close to launching fresh atrocities.

"We continue to receive a stream of credible reporting suggesting that terrorists are in the very advanced stages of planning attacks in Indonesia," Australia's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade announced in an official statement.

"Attacks could occur at any time, anywhere in Indonesia and could be directed at any locations known to be frequented by foreigners."

The warning coincided with (so far ineffective) Boycott Bali protests related to the recent jailing of Schapelle Corby who received 20 years for pot offences in marked contrast to the 30 month sentence given to Bali bomber Abu Bakar Bashir.

New Zealand pizza chain Hell Pizza attracted 3,000 entries in two days to a competition intended to highlight Schapelle's plight, which offered the winner 'the chance to win a holiday that could last a lifetime - in Bali'.

Jonty Skrufff (Skrufff.com)