Scottish suspect denies murder of Dutch crime writer

A Scottish suspect has denied being involved in the murder of a Dutchman during an alleged eight-year campaign of serious organised crime.

Christopher Hughes, 32, faces the accusations which span across Europe.

They include the killing of Dutch crime writer Martin Kok, 49, who was gunned down at a sex club in the town of Laren in the Netherlands on December 8, 2016.

The indictment against Hughes lists three charges which run between December 2011 and January 2020.

The first alleges Hughes was involved with others in “serious organised crime” with locations including Scotland, Portugal, Spain, France, Germany, Italy as well as Holland.

It is said he was involved in the “importation” of cocaine and possessed firearms with the intention of supplying weapons to individuals.

The charge also claims Hughes did “conceal” money – described as “criminal property” – and that cash was used to pay for weddings, school fees, holidays, watches and cars.

It is further stated “encrypted” devices – created to help hide illegal activities from the authorities – were supplied to others named in the charge including Kok.

The second charge is accused being involved in the supply of cocaine.

The final accusation details the alleged murder of Kok.

Hughes is alleged to have been involved in the killing with a named individual and others.

He is said to have met Kok at a Citizen M hotel in Amsterdam.

Information about Kok’s whereabouts was allegedly passed to others before an initial attempt to kill the Dutchman was made.

Prosecutors claim Hughes then went with Kok the same night to the Boccaccio Club in Laren.

It is there Kok was repeatedly shot on the head and body.

Donald Findlay, defending, pleaded not guilty on behalf of Hughes during a short hearing at the High Court in Glasgow on Wednesday.

The QC said investigations into the case were ongoing. No trial was set.

Lady Stacey instead fixed another hearing for May, which is hoped to be before the judge who will preside over any trial.