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Man denies murdering men in alleged arson attack

Sarah CoopOld Bailey, London
BBC A man wearing white forensic overalls and green gloves emerges from a red brick building. BBC
Forensic teams were pictured at the scene shortly after the fire in April 2024

A man has denied murdering two men in an alleged arson attack in east London.

Mohammed Djellal and Fawzi Bouchabou died in the fire on Forest Road, Walthamstow, on 21 April 2024. The Old Bailey previously heard the multi-occupancy block was "overwhelmed" with flames and the men died from smoke inhalation.

Fouad Boudra, 25, an Algerian national, was extradited from France over the alleged murders.

He pleaded not guilty to two counts of murder and two of manslaughter. He also denies arson with intent to endanger life, reckless arson to a property and two counts of causing grievous bodily harm with or without intent to a third man.

Boudra appeared at the Old Bailey via video-link from Belmarsh prison, assisted by an interpreter.

He has been remanded into custody and is due to next appear at the same court on 11 December.

The trial was fixed for 4 January 2027.

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