Libya says CIA instigated search of planes in Brazil

The official Libyan news agency said a search of Libyan planes in Brazil was instigated by the US Central Intelligence Agency. Libya was reacting to a search by Brazilian Air Force personnel of four Libyan cargo planes that made a fueling stopover in Brazil on their way to Nicaragua. The Brazilians detained the planes earlier this month because they were found to be carrying US- and Soviet-made arms, explosives, and ammunition - not medical supplies as Libya claimed. The planes were unloaded this weekend. The Libyan news agency quoted reports that the search took place as a result of CIA intervention.

The United States has said the arms might have been intended to help overthrow democratic governments in Central America. Nicaragua has said they were meant for its defense against US-backed agression.