Islam convert to remain in custody

(ANSA) - Palermo, January 30 - A judge on Friday ruled a Palermo native who was arrested two days ago on possession of war munitions charges is to remain in custody.
    Giacomo Piran, a convert to Islam, was arrested in the province of Palermo as part of an anti-terror operation on the night between Tuesday and Wednesday. Digos anti-terror police found war munitions, warfare training manuals, and videos featuring bodies covered in white sheets and Arabic writing at his home.
    Police searched some 40 premises as part of the operation. Police say Piran is married to a North African woman, has a rap sheet for violence, a history of psychiatric problems, and is a former army officer cadet. He will be held under house arrest.
    Italy is on a high state of alert and the authorities have beefed up anti-terror measures after this month's attacks by Islamist terrorists in France.