Security agency to monitor AUM splinter group

Mainichi, Japan/March 6, 2007

Justice Minister Jinen Nagase said on Tuesday that security officials will monitor a new AUM Shinrikyo splinter group created by cult leader Fumihiro Joyu.

"If we find that the new organization has ties with (former leader Shoko) Asahara, it is likely that it will be put under observation," said Nagase.

Joyu, 44, visited the Public Security Intelligence Agency on Monday to notify it of his decision to break away from AUM Shinrikyo, which now calls itself "Aleph."

Joyu reportedly told the agency that his new organization would cooperate with government security officials monitoring the group.