DATE=5/17/02

TYPE=CORRESPONDENT REPORT

NUMBER=2-289912

TITLE=PAK /U-S REPORTER (S-UPD)

BYLINE=AYAZ GUL

DATELINE=ISLAMABAD

CONTENT=

VOICED AT:

INTRO: Authorities in Pakistan have dug up a grave containing the remains of murdered American journalist Daniel Pearl in the southern city of Karachi. From Islamabad, Ayaz Gul reports.

TEXT: Police have recovered a torso and separated head they believe belong to the U-S reporter. Authorities say a tip led them to the grave on the outskirts of Karachi.

Doctors are examining the body that was found in nine pieces. Major-General Rashid Qureshi is a government spokesman in Islamabad.

/// QURESHI ACT ///

It seems to be Daniel Pearl's body. We are waiting for a confirmation because we want to be 100-percent sure that there is no mistake in this.

/// END ACT ///

Police are reported to have also found a room near the grave where Mr. Pearl was held hostage.

The American reporter was abducted in Karachi in January while researching stories on Islamic militants. A video showing his body being butchered was delivered to U-S diplomats in the city a month later.

Four Islamic militants are on trial in Pakistan for allegedly plotting his murder. Seven other suspects remain at large. (SIGNED)

NEB/AG/RAE