The Prosecutor v. Mahamat Said Abdel Kani
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The warrant of arrest against Mr Mahamat Said Abdel Kani also known as "Mahamat Said Abdel Kain" and "Mahamat Saïd Abdelkani" ("Mr Said") was issued under seal on 7 January 2019 for war crimes and crimes against humanity allegedly committed in Bangui (CAR) in 2013. Mr Said was surrendered to the ICC on 24 January 2021. The initial appearance of Mr Said before the Single Judge of Pre-Trial Chamber II, Judge Rosario Salvatore Aitala, took place on 28 and 29 January 2021. The confirmation of charges hearing took place from 12 to 14 October 2021.
On 9 December 2021, Pre-Trial Chamber II partially confirmed the charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes brought by the Prosecutor against Mr Said and committed him to trial. The trial opened on 26 September 2022. The Prosecution concluded its presentation of evidence on 15 November 2024, the Chamber having heard the testimony of 58 prosecution witnesses. On 17 March 2025, the Defence started to present its witnesses. The Defence concluded its presentation of evidence on 2 September 2025.
The closing statements took place from 25 to 26 November 2025. Statements were made by the Office of the Prosecutor, the Legal Representative of Victims, and the Defence.
Next steps: The Judges have started their deliberations and the Judgement will be pronounced in due course.
Warrant of Arrest for Mahamat Said Abdel
Decision on the confirmation of charges against Mahamat Said Abdel Kani
Trial Chamber VI
Judge Miatta Maria Samba
(Presiding)
Judge Socorro Flores Liera
Judge Sergio Gerardo Ugalde Godínez
Judge Keebong Paek
(Alternate Judge)
Office of the Prosecutor
Karim A. A. Khan KC, Prosecutor
Mame Mandiaye Niang, Deputy Prosecutor
Defence
Jennifer Naouri
Dov Jacobs
Legal Representatives of the Victims
Sarah Pellet