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Police at the scene of the attack in Amsterdam (archive image)
Photo: Evert Elzinga / AFP
The two suspects of the murder of the Dutch crime reporter Peter R. de Vries appeared before the criminal judge for the first time.
At the first public meeting in Amsterdam, the alleged murderer Delano G. invoked his right to remain silent.
The also accused Kamil E. protested his innocence.
He said he didn't know anything about the murder.
This first meeting dealt with procedural issues.
The main proceedings are scheduled to begin in summer 2022.
The 22-year-old Rotterdam Delano G. is said to have shot the reporter on July 6th on the street in Amsterdam. Kamil E., who comes from Poland, drove the getaway car according to the prosecution. The prominent journalist was hit by six bullets - including in the head. Nine days later, the 64-year-old died from serious injuries. The murder shook the Netherlands badly and caused international horror.
Peter R. de Vries has long been in the crosshairs of organized crime.
The prosecution sees clear connections to the ongoing trial of a notorious drug gang.
De Vries was the witness's confidante in the process.
His brother and defense lawyer had already been murdered beforehand.
The investigations into clients have not yet been concluded, said the public prosecutor.
The two defendants were arrested shortly after the crime in a getaway car on the motorway about 50 kilometers west of Amsterdam.
The police had found weapons in the car - including the alleged murder weapon.
The public prosecutor wants to prove the guilt of the two men with camera images and evidence found during house searches.
The driver of the getaway car is said to have scouted the area of the later crime scene days before the murder.
ptz / dpa
