Woolwich Suspect Enters Court With Koran Saying Call Me ‘Mujahid Abu Hamza’

Michael Adebolajo, one of two men charged with the brutal murder of Drummer Lee Rigby in Woolwich last month has made a bizarre court appearance, saluting "Usain Bolt-style" with a copy of the Quran and blowing kisses to a man in the gallery.

Adebolajo, who interrupted proceedings numerous times during the hearing on Monday, has asked to be known as Mujahid Abu Hamza in court, according to reports. 

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 Quran.

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."

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.

His case has been referred to the Old Bailey.

Another man, 22-year-old Michael Adebowale, also has been charged with murdering Drummer Lee Rigby, who died of "multiple incised wounds," according to a post-mortem.  Michael Adebowale, appeared at the Old Bailey via video link.

He is accused of murdering Drummer Rigby on May 22, as well as possession of a firearm, a 9.4mm KNIL Model 91 revolver, with intent to cause others to believe that violence would be used. No application for bail was made during the brief hearing.

 

Both men spent a number of days in hospital with gunshot wounds, following the killing and shoot-out with police. The soldier was hacked to death near Woolwich Barracks in south east London as he strolled back to base on May 22.

The judge, Mr Justice Sweeney, told the court the defendant would reappear for a preliminary hearing on June 28, when his case is expected to be joined up with that of Adebolajo.

People across the country subsequently paid their respects to Drummer Rigby, with floral tributes marking the scene of his death.

But this weekend also saw clashes between rival protesters outside the Houses of Parliament, despite pleas from police and the soldier's family not to use the death for political gain.

Source: Huffington Post/The Sun