Crimes / Criminals / Judges / Lawyers / Trials

Nov. 11, 1962 - Fascist Group on Trial at Banska Bystrica alleged to have Murdered Partisans. The public trial is now being held at Banska Bystrica - Central Slovakia of a 14 member fascist group known as ''Edelweiss'' - on charges of having murdered partisans and civilians in Central and Western Slovakia in 1944 and 1945. It is claimed that there were more than 3 victims of the group - whose members are said to have disguised themselves as partisans. The alleged victims were Americans - French - Soviet and Hungarian partisans and members of an Anglo-American mission. The commander f the terrorists and a direct participant in most of the murderous activities is alleged to have been LADISLAM NIZNANSKY - former Deputy head of a branch of the ''Free Europe'' radio Station - and still one of its lading officials - and now living at Munich Ohmstrasse 14/7. Niznansky defected to West Germany in 1948 - and is being tried in his absence. The Czech Ministry has asked the appropriate authorities for his extradition. Photo shows Scene during the trial at Banska Bystrica - the accused are seated between guards. (Credit Image: © Keystone Pictures USA/ZUMAPRESS.com)