Algerian pilot denies involvement in Trade Centre attacks

Algerian pilot Lotfi Raissi was an instructor for four of the hijackers involved in the September 11 attacks on the US, Bow Street magistrates court heard today.

However, Outside court Raissi’s solicitor Richard Egan said in a statement that his client was subject to a US government request for his arrest on charges of giving false information.

‘‘Whether that is the full extent of their request remains to be seen.

‘‘He adamantly denied any involvement in the recent appalling tragedy and he is confident he will be absolved of all involvement.’’

Raissi, who was dressed in a white tracksuit top and blue trousers, spoke only to confirm his name during the 10-minute hearing.

The allegation was made by prosecutor Arvinda Sambir during an extradition hearing at Bow Street Magistrates Court.

The hearing was held after Raissi, originally detained on September 21 by Metropolitan Police anti-terrorism detectives, was re-arrested by police at the request of the US authorities.

Ms Sambir told the court ‘‘he was a lead instructor of four of the pilots that were responsible for the hijackings.

‘‘The one that we are concerned about is the one that went into the Pentagon,’’ she added.

She said Raissi visited the US on a number of occasions between June and July this year.

On June 23 he visited Las Vegas with his wife and then flew to Arizona with the Pentagon pilot, she said.

‘‘We say he was there to ensure that pilots were capable and trained for this purpose.’’

Raissi started his training for a US commercial pilot’s licence in 1997, she told the court.

‘‘He attended a number of flying schools attended by four of the hijackers.’’

Ms Sambir said he is subject to a warrant from the US authorities for obtaining a pilot’s licence dishonestly because he did not declare a previous conviction for theft, or that he had had surgery on his knee.

But she said further charges were expected, adding: ‘‘It is no secret that conspiracy to murder is being looked at.’’

Ms Sambir said when Raissi was arrested by British police log books were found in his house with crucial dates missing.

She said there was sufficient evidence to show his relationship with the hijackers went further than association.

There was also video footage to show that he travelled with the Pentagon pilot to Arizona, she told the court.

District Judge Nicholas Evans ordered that Raissi should remain in custody and appear before the court again on October 5.