ALLAFRICA.COM
Southern African Press Association (SAPA) [21/01/13]
By Devereaux Morkel
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| Henry Okah (Source: Nigerian Tribune) |
Nigerian terrorist Henry Okah was found guilty of masterminding two car bombings in Abuja, by the High Court in Johannesburg on Monday.
Handing down judgment, Judge Neels Claassen said the State had proved Okah's guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Claassen said Okah's failure to testify meant evidence against him remained uncontested.
Twelve people were killed and 36 injured in the car bombs on October 1, 2010, the anniversary of Nigeria's independence.
Okah was arrested in Johannesburg the next day.
He apparently leads the Movement for the Emancipation of the Niger Delta, which claimed responsibility for the blasts.
He was found guilty on Monday of engaging in terrorist activities, conspiracy to engage in terrorist activity, and delivering, placing, and detonating an explosive device.
Okah also faces terrorism charges relating to two explosions in March 2010 in the southern Nigerian city of Warri.
South Africa has tried him as part of its international obligation, as the Nigerian authorities had not applied for his extradition, according to the prosecution.
After the guilty finding, Okah was taken to the court holding cells under heavy police guard.
When his wife became emotional a friend comforted her, before they left the courtroom.
About 10 police officers were in the court, with another four outside while the case was being heard. The main road in front of the court was also closed.
Sentencing is expected on January 31.
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