Date:23/08/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/08/23/stories/2006082308021600.htm

International

Stage set for terror trial

Hasan Suroor

LONDON: The stage is set for what is expected to be one of the most keenly-watched trials of recent times after 11 persons charged in connection with the foiled "plot" to blow up trans-Atlantic flights, originating from Britain, were produced in court on Tuesday amid heavy security and unprecedented media interest.

The City of Westminster Magistrates' court was packed to capacity as the defendants were brought in small groups watched by their families and friends — their every gesture recorded by a large contingent of domestic and foreign correspondents.

Many persons, who could not gain entry into the court, were seen milling around television crews who were stationed outside the court throughout the day to provide almost minute-to-minute update on the hearing.

Tuesday's hearing was only a preliminary one with police seeking further remand of the accused.

In the first few hours, four had already been remanded.

Lawyers for some of the defendants wanted the media to be banned from publishing the addresses of their clients to protect their families' privacy.

On Monday, police had cautioned against sensational reporting to avoid prejudicing the trial of the accused persons.