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REX/Sipa Press
World News

John Paul assassin deported from Italy

Mehmet Ali Agca laid white roses at the grave of the former pontiff on Saturday and has requested to meet Pope Francis, but the Vatican has refused.

On Monday an Italian judge approved an expulsion order against the man and he was sent home to Istanbul.

Agca, 56, was jailed for 19 years after shooting Pope John Paul II in May 1981 whilst the Holy Father toured St Peter's Square.

The former pontiff visited his would be assasin in prision and forgave him but his motive is still unclear.

Agca is banned from visiting Italy until at least 2016 because of his conviction but it's thought he drove over the border from Austria unchecked.

On his request to meet Pope Francis the Vatican said: "He has put flowers on the tomb of John Paul II. I think that is enough"

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