Islamic group seeks Gov. Bush's leadership, swift response in bomb plot investigation

<br>MIAMI (AP) _ A Muslim group on Sunday asked Gov. Jeb Bush to provide leadership in the investigation of a doctor suspected of plotting to blow up dozens of mosques and an Islamic education center.

Sunday, August 25th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

MIAMI (AP) _ A Muslim group on Sunday asked Gov. Jeb Bush to provide leadership in the investigation of a doctor suspected of plotting to blow up dozens of mosques and an Islamic education center.

Altaf Ali, executive director of the state chapter of the Council on American-Islamic Relations, also asked that the state provide security at mosques until the threat of more attacks has passed.

``We are really concerned about the safety of our children and the individuals that attend the mosques in Florida,'' Ali said.

Robert J. Goldstein, 37, was arrested Friday and charged with possession of a non-registered destructive device and attempting to use an explosive to damage and destroy Islamic centers. He was being held without bail Sunday.

When police searched his home, they found a cache of up to 40 weapons, including .50-caliber machine guns and sniper rifles. They also uncovered more than 30 explosive devices, including hand grenades and a 5-gallon gasoline bomb with a timer attached.

Ali said Bush should publicly condemn the plot and be more involved in the investigation. The Muslim organization is trying to arrange a meeting with the governor, he said.

A spokeswoman for the governor did not immediately return a call Sunday.

U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Special Agent Carlos Baixauli said Sunday that no new arrests had been made but declined further comment.

Goldstein has no listed telephone number and his lawyer did not immediately return a call Sunday.