|
4 death sentences for bombings
19/08/2003 09:31 - (SA)
Casablanca - A criminal court has handed down death sentences on four of 87 defendants being tried for the May 16 suicide bombings in Morocco's economic hub.
Three were would-be suicide bombers who survived while the fourth was a leader of the organisation responsible for the attacks that killed 45 people, including 12 of the bombers.
Prison sentences ranging from 10 months to life were handed to the rest of the accused, all suspected members of the Islamic extremist Salafia Jihadia movement.
They have been on trial since July 21, accused of "acts of sabotage and murder, undermining internal state security, and criminal association".
The death sentences were given to three would-be suicide bombers who decided not to go ahead at the last moment, on the evening of the attacks.
They were Mohamed El Omari, a 23-year-old night watchman, Rachid Jalil, a 27-year-old welder, and Yassine Lahnech, a 22-year-old travelling salesman.
The fourth was Hassan Taousi, considered to be a leading member of Salafia Jihadia.
Bellicose preaching and calls for jihad
All four were accused of "voluntary homicide with premeditation" as well as facing the other charges.
One of four Islamic "theorists" appearing before the Casablanca appeals court's criminal chamber was sentenced to life imprisonment, with the others getting 30-year sentences.
The first, Miloudi Zakaria, 35, was accused of having had "a key role in the action of extremist groups in Morocco" and of distinguishing himself by his "bellicose preaching and his calls for jihad (holy war) against the rulers."
The three other "theorists" were Mohammed Fizazi, a 55-year-old teacher, Abdelkrim Chadli, a 43-year-old doctor of philosophy, and Omar Haddouchi, a 42-year-old travelling salesman, all accused of undermining state security, criminal association, sabotage and inciting to violence.
The reading of the verdict was largely drowned out by cries of "Allah Akbar" (God is great) by the accused and members of their families in court.
Hundreds of people have been arrested in connection with the five suicide blasts, which targeted a Spanish restaurant, the Belgian consulate, a Jewish community centre and cemetery and a hotel.
- AFP
|
News
