Spain judge opens terrorism case against Boko Haram under principle of universal jurisdiction

In this screen grab image taken on February 9, 2015 from a video made available by Islamist group Boko Haram, leader Abubakar Shekau makes a statement at an undisclosed location. A Spanish High Court judge agreed on Thursday to hear a lawsuit against
In this screen grab image taken on February 9, 2015 from a video made available by Islamist group Boko Haram, leader Abubakar Shekau makes a statement at an undisclosed location. A Spanish High Court judge agreed on Thursday to hear a lawsuit against Boko Haram and Abubakar Shekau for crimes against humanity and terrorism. -- PHOTO: AFP 

MADRID (AFP) - A Spanish High Court judge agreed on Thursday to hear a lawsuit against Nigerian Islamist militant group Boko Haram and its leader Abubakar Shekau for crimes against humanity and terrorism.

The judge ruled he was competent to handle the case under the principle of universal jurisdiction - which allows courts to try certain atrocities committed in other countries - because the case concerns a Spanish nun who is a victim of the group.

(This story is developing.)

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