Woolwich Suspect Michael Adebolajo Blows Kisses And Raises Quran In Court

'Call Me Mujahid Abu Hamza'

Michael Adebolajo, one of two men charged with the brutal murder of Drummer Lee Rigby in Woolwich last month has made a bizarre court appearance, saluting "Usain Bolt-style" with a copy of the Quran and blowing kisses to a man in the gallery.

Adebolajo, who interrupted proceedings numerous times during the hearing on Monday, has asked to be known as Mujahid Abu Hamza in court, according to reports.

The 28-year-old, of Romford, Essex, appeared at Westminster Magistrates' Court, and was charged with the murder of the young soldier, and the attempted murder of two police officers.

Michael Adebolajo has been charged with murder and attempted murder

Wearing a white t-shirt and white trousers, Adebolajo blew a kiss to a man in the public gallery, and they both pointed to the sky.

His left arm was fully bandaged and he held a copy of the Quran.

As he was asked to stand, Adebolajo said: "May I ask why? May I ask why?"

When told it is customary to stand, he said: "I want to sit."

After standing when asked to at the end of today's short hearing, he asked Deputy Chief Magistrate Emma Arbuthnot: "I would like to alleviate the pain if I may?"

He then kissed the Koran and raised his arm into the air.

His case has been referred to the Old Bailey, and he has been remanded for a bail hearing within 48 hours.

Another man, 22-year-old Michael Adebowale, also has been charged with murdering Rigby, who died of "multiple incised wounds," according to a post-mortem.

Both men spent a number of days in hospital with gunshot wounds, following the killing and shoot-out with police.

The soldier was hacked to death near Woolwich Barracks in south east London as he strolled back to base on May 22.

People across the country subsequently paid their respects to Drummer Rigby, with floral tributes marking the scene of his death.

But this weekend also saw clashes between rival protesters outside the Houses of Parliament, despite pleas from police and the soldier's family not to use the death for political gain.

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