News In Brief

Nicaraguans in Costa Rica deny CIA runs them . . . and Costa Ricans ask for proof on bribery

Costa Rica said Monday it will demand proof of allegations in the United States press that its authorities have taken bribes from Nicaraguan rebels to allow them to operate from Costa Rican territory.

''The charges are very serious and we will ask for proof,'' said Foreign Minister Carlos Jose Gutierrez. He said the report hurt Costa Rican neutrality and international prestige.