Trial For American Shooter Resumes In Pakistan

A student holds a burning effigy depicting Raymond Davis.

A Pakistani court in the city of Lahore resumed and then quickly adjourned the trial of a purported American diplomat accused of killing two Pakistanis in a case that has strained relations between the United States and Pakistan.

The American, Raymond Davis, says he acted in self-defense when he shot dead two men in Lahore on January 27.

The United States says the man was an employee in the U.S. consulate in Lahore at the time and as such has diplomatic immunity. Local reports have identified Davis as a contractor working for the CIA and say that he does not qualify as a diplomat.

Pakistani prosecutors accuse Davis of double murder, and if convicted he could face execution.

The trial will resume on March 8.

Reuters