The Life Story Of Victor Bout

Alleged Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout (centre)
has told a Thai court that he had been framed (AFP Photo)

'Merchant of Death' Claims: 'I Was Framed'
-- The Danger Room

Any contest for world's most (allegedly) evil man would have to include Viktor Bout, the (alleged) global arms dealer and so-called "Merchant of Death." After years eluding a worldwide manhunt -- and supplying weapons from everyone to the Taliban to Liberian dictator Charles Taylor (allegedly) -- Bout was finally captured in Thailand in March, as part of an American-lead sting operation. He testified for the first time today, fighting his extradition to the United States. His defense: "I was framed."

Bout claims he has no intention of using his fleet of cargo planes to deliver arms to the FARC, the Colombian guerrilla group. "I have never been to Colombia or the United States," Bout told the court.

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More News On Victor Bout

Alleged arms smuggler Bout testifies in Thailand -- AP

Merchant of Death testifies in extradition hearing -- The Telegraph
Alleged Russian arms dealer tells Thai court he was framed -- AFP

Viktor Bout: secretive and successful 'Merchant of Death -- The Guardian

Arms suspect testifies in Bangkok -- BBC News

'Merchant of Death' arms dealer Viktor Bout faces court -- Times Online