Bagus BT Saragih, Jakarta – The National Intelligence Agency's (BIN) deputy of communication and information Bambang Wiyono refused on Wednesday to comment on allegations that the agency had spied on Australia about 14 years ago.

The Australian media has run reports quoting former BIN chief AM Hendropriyono's comments claimed to be made on an Australian TV program in 2004. Hendropriyono reportedly admitted that BIN had tapped Australian military officers' and politicians' phone calls during the 1999 East Timor crisis.

Bambang said he was aware about the news reports but refused to comment. "[The alleged tapping] was a very long time ago. I need to check on old data [...] I will get back to you soon," he told The Jakarta Post when contacted on Wednesday afternoon.

He had not reported back or replied to the Post's messages as of Wednesday evening. His phone also appeared to be inactive.

As well as his admission about the tapping, Hendropriyono is also reported to have said that BIN had unsuccessfully attempted to recruit Australian officials as double agents, news.com.au reported.

Earlier on Wednesday, Australian Prime Minister Tony Abbott made an obvious reference to Hendropriyono's statements.

"I do note there have been allegations and admissions in the past on this subject, people didn't overreact then, I certainly don't propose to overreact now," he said at the Australian parliament.