CULT LEADER DENIES SPREADING SARIN

Wednesday, May 17, 1995
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In custody today,Aum Shinrikyo cult leader Shoko Asaharadenied any responsibility in the sarin gas attack on Tokyo's subways. In a statement through lawyer Makoto Endo, the cult leader said "Absolutely no one from Aum spread sarin." Police interrogators report that the guru spoke to them on most subjects, but would complain of a liver ailment whenever asked about theMar. 20 attackand would not answer questions. Including Asahara, 21 sect members are jailed in connection with the attack. Police saythey will charge the sect leader with murder and attempted murder, but no formal charges have been filed. Authorities can hold the suspects for up to 22 days before charging them.