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Would-Be Pope Assassin Misses Check-in

Last Friday, just a day after his release from prison, the Turkish gunman who shot Pope John Paul II failed to report to a police station, and authorities said the military could ask for his arrest for draft dodging. Mehmet Ali Agca was required to report each day to a police station to allow authorities to keep tabs on him, at least until officials decided whether he should serve in the military.

Mr. Agca, 48, was released from an Istanbul prison after serving about 25 years in Italy and Turkey for the assassination attempt on the pope and the murder of a prominent Turkish journalist. Istanbul Gov. Muammer Guler said Agca, whose whereabouts were unknown, had not reported to any police station by Friday evening. Guler said Agca was also required to report to a military hospital on Monday. "If he doesn`t show up, he will be listed as a draft dodger" and officials could seek his arrest, Guler said.

Justice Minister Cemil Cicek ordered a review of Agca`s case and later told a Turkish newspaper he might be returned to his cell to serve at least 11 more months for the murder of the journalist, Abdi Ipekci. Agca would remain free until an appeals court reviewed the case to see whether any errors were committed in releasing him.