Gunman ‘shoots a number of victims’ exterior trial of murdered skilled boxer
- This story is developing, more to follow
Several people have been injured in a shooting outside a court in the German city of Bielefeld.
The shocking incident took place outside the trial of Huseyin Akkurt, who was charged in connection with the 2024 murder of professional boxer Besar Nimani.
At around 1:30pm local time, shortly after the end of today’s hearing, three shots were fired around 150m (490ft) from the courthouse.
Eyewitnesses told Bild that police officers outside the courtroom shouted: ‘Someone is shooting outside!’
The news outlet also reported that at least two of the defendant’s family members were shot. While one suffered a wound to the leg, the other is said to have been critically wounded in their chest.
So far, one suspected perpetrator has been arrested, while another has barricaded himself in a nearby building. A police helicopter is currently circling the area.
Akkurt’s trial began at the end of January, and strict security measures were put in place to ensure the safety of all involved. Riot squad cops reportedly had to secure the building and courtroom, and everyone who entered the courtroom had to be thoroughly searched
According to the indictment filed by the Bielefeld public prosecutor’s office, two men ambushed Besar Nimani on March 9 2024 and fired 16 shots in front of a shop in the city’s pedestrian zone.
At around 1:30pm local time three shots were fired around 150m (490ft) from the courthouse
Several people have been injured in a shooting outside a court in the German city of Bielefeld (File image)
Nimani, who died at the age of 38, had parked his car nearby earlier on the day of his death.
He bled to death at the scene of the killing. The motive for the killing is still unknown, though many suspect it was to settle a score in the criminal world.
Akkurt, now 34, was arrested in Brussels, Belgium, in July, has not yet commented on his charge.
Another suspect in the case, Ayman Dawoud Kirit, is said to still be on the run.
More to follow.
