Pakistani Terror Trial Resumes Of Americans

The trial is resuming in Pakistan today of five Americans accused of plotting terrorist acts.

Court proceedings in the city of Sargodha have so far been held under tight security and closed to journalists.

The five Muslim men, aged 19 to 25, described as friends from Virginia, near Washington, were arrested in Sargodha in December.

Pakistani authorities accuse them of seeking to make contact with extremist groups for the purpose of plotting terrorist attacks in Pakistan or allied countries.

The suspects say they are innocent and have alleged beatings and mistreatment while in Pakistani custody.

Defense lawyers have also accused Pakistani authorities of fabricating evidence. Pakistani authorities have denied the claims.

compiled from agency reports