IS attacks suspect Abdeslam defies court in first appearance
BRUSSELS — The man accused of being a would-be Islamic State attacker who was once Europe’s most wanted fugitive defied a Belgian court Monday, refusing to rise or answer questions during his first public appearance since his arrest nearly two years ago.
Salah Abdeslam is facing attempted murder charges in Brussels from a police shootout four months after the Paris attacks. Abdeslam and an accomplice fled while another man sprayed automatic gunfire and was killed. The pair was captured a few days later in the same neighbourhood where Abdeslam and many of the dead attackers grew up.
Abdeslam arrived in the Belgian capital Monday morning after being transferred from a prison in France. Security was high at the Brussels courthouse, with armed guards and multiple checkpoints leading to the courtroom.
“I do not wish to respond to any questions. I was asked to come. I came,” said Abdeslam, who stayed seated for the hearing, flanked by police in balaclavas. “I defend myself by keeping silent.”