Cartoon protest 'death threats'

The demonstration took place in February 2006

A protester called for UK and US troops in Iraq to be brought back in body bags during a protest against anti-Islamic cartoons, a court was told.

Mizanur Rahman, 24, a web designer of Palmers Green, north London, also called for the beheading of opponents of Islam, the Old Bailey heard.

He denies inciting murder of troops and others.

The offence allegedly took place during a demonstration near the Danish Embassy in central London on 3 February 2006.

The court heard Mr Rahman said: "We want to see them [troops] coming home in body bags.

"We want to see their blood running in the streets of Baghdad."

Mr Rahman also had placards calling for the annihilation and beheading of those who insulted Islam, said Peter Wright QC, prosecuting.

Mr Wright said: "He incited or encouraged others to murder in the name of religion."

He said the speech through a loudhailer had continued: "We want to see the Mujahideen shoot down their planes the way we shoot down birds, we want to see their tanks burn in the way we burn their flags."

Up to 300 people marched to the embassy to a demonstration against the publication of a cartoon of the Prophet Mohammed in Denmark and other European newspapers.

The case continues.