At the first public meeting on Monday in Amsterdam, the alleged murderer Delano G. (22) invoked his right to remain silent. The also accused Kamil E. protested his innocence – he did not know about the murder.
The Rotterdam Delano G. is said to have shot the reporter on July 6th on the street in Amsterdam. Kamil E., who comes from Poland, drove the getaway car according to the prosecution. The prominent journalist was hit by six bullets – including in the head. The 64-year-old died nine days later from his serious injuries. The murder had shaken the Netherlands badly and also triggered international horror.
Peter R. de Vries has long been in the crosshairs of organized crime. The prosecutor sees clear connections to the ongoing trial of a notorious drug gang. De Vries was the witness’s confidante in the process. His brother and defense lawyer had already been murdered beforehand. The investigations into clients have not yet been concluded, said the public prosecutor.
The two defendants were arrested shortly after the crime in the getaway car on the motorway about 50 kilometers west of Amsterdam. The police had found weapons in the car – including the alleged murder weapon. The public prosecutor wants to prove the guilt of the two men with camera images and evidence found during house searches. The driver of the getaway car is said to have scouted the area of the later crime scene days before the murder.
This first meeting initially dealt with procedural issues. The main proceedings are scheduled to begin in summer 2022.