Monday 3 June 2013

Woolwich Killer appears in court today


One of the men involved in the Woolwich murder appeared in court for the first time today.
Michael Adebolajo, 28, from Romford in Essex, instructed the court to address him as Mujahid Abu Hamza and is accused of murdering Drummer Rigby, 25, a soldier from the 2 Battalion, The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers on 22 May.

He is also being accused of the attempted murder of two police officers and possession of a firearm, a 9.4mm KNIL model 91 revolver, with intent.

All dressed in white Wearing a white T-shirt and white trousers, Adebolajo blew a kiss to a man in the public gallery, and they both pointed to the sky. His left arm was fully bandaged and he held a copy of the Koran.



As he was asked to stand, Adebolajo said: "May I ask why? May I ask why?"
When told it is customary to stand, he said: "I want to sit."


Adebolajo was charged with the four counts on Saturday, having been discharged from hospital on Friday. He was shot by police on 22 May and spent just over a week in hospital being treated for his injuries.

After standing when asked to at the end of today's short hearing, he asked Deputy Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot: "I would like to alleviate the pain if I may?"
He then kissed the Koran and raised his arm into the air. Adebolajo was remanded in custody to appear at the Old Bailey within 48 hours.

His co-accused, Michael Adebowale, 22, made his second appearance in court yesterday charged with murder and possession of a firearm. He was also shot by police.
Mr Adebowale, wearing a green and yellow jumpsuit and flanked by two prison officers, spoke only to confirm his name during a brief hearing at the Old Bailey conducted by videolink from Belmarsh prison. He was remanded in custody and will next appear in court on 28 June.

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