A suspected Islamist went on trial today for the murder of a Dutch filmmaker and waived the right to mount a defence.
Mohammed Bouyeri is accused of killing Theo van Gogh as he cycled to work in Amsterdam on November 2nd, 2004.
The Dutch-Moroccan is charged with shooting and stabbing Mr Van Gogh before cutting his throat and leaving a note pinned to his body with a knife.
A descendant of the brother of 19th century Dutch painter Vincent van Gogh, the filmmaker was known for his outspoken criticism of Islam and angered many Muslims by making a film which accused Islam of condoning violence against women.
In an emotionally charged start to one of the most closely watched criminal trials in The Netherlands in years, Van Gogh's mother and sister told judges the murder had devastated their close-knit family and sent shock waves through The Netherlands.
The accused entered court clutching a book with an ornate motif on the cover. Wearing a black and white headscarf, the bearded 27-year-old confirmed the place and date of his birth.
"He does not wish to present a defence. He wishes to exercise his right to silence," his lawyer told the high-security court in an Amsterdam suburb.
Prompted repeatedly by judges to address the court, the accused replied: "I have nothing to add." Later, he interrupted a judge by reciting religious verse in Arabic.
His lawyer made no comment about the guilt or innocence of his client at a pre-trial hearing.