A Japanese newspaper photographer arrested after an Iraqi war souvenir exploded in his suitcase, killing a Jordanian airport guard, remained in custody today.
Mr Hiroki Gomi was arrested after a device he carried into Amman's Queen Alia International Airport exploded. Three people were also injured, including two guards, one of whom is in a critical condition.
Japanese newspaper Mainichitoday sent an apology to Jordanian authorities expressing its condolences to the family of Mr Ali-Sarhan, who was killed when the device exploded in his hands.
Jordanian Information Minister Mr Mohammad Affash Adwan said Mr Gomi (36) told authorities that he picked up the metal device as a "souvenir from the remnants of war on Iraq." It was not immediately clear what the device was.
Mainichiexecutive Mr Tatsuaki Hashimoto said the newspaper is waiting for further details, but added "we suppose that the cause of the incident is an inconsiderate act committed" by Mr Gomi.
Jordanian officials said Mr Gomi told them he did not think the metal device was dangerous. He also had in his luggage other souvenirs from Iraq, including antiques, rugs and paintings.
AP