Van Gogh murder suspect waives right to defence

"AMSTERDAM (Reuters) - A suspected Islamist went on trial on Monday for the murder of a Dutch filmmaker critical of Islam but waived the right to mount a defence in a case that has stoked religious and racial tension in the Netherlands.

Mohammed Bouyeri is accused of killing Theo van Gogh as he cycled to work in Amsterdam on November 2, 2004. The Dutch-Moroccan is charged with shooting and stabbing 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." (more at link)
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