Embassy keeps watch on trial

New Zealand consular officials in Brazil are monitoring the trial of six men charged with murdering Sir Peter Blake two weeks ago.

Ambassador Denise Almao said Brazilian prosecutor Manoel Pastana was "extremely helpful" in keeping embassy staff well informed on the trial at Macapa, the Amazon port town where Sir Peter was shot during the robbery of his exploration boat Seamaster.

The Brazilian legal system requires the prosecution to lay its case within 81 days of the accused being arrested. In the preliminary trial stages, prosecutors must establish there is a case to answer.

Ms Almao said it was difficult to "put a deadline on" when the judge's decision would be given, but a verdict was not expected for at least two months.

The man accused of fatally shooting Sir Peter, Ricardo Colares, gave evidence for four hours on Wednesday, One News reported last night.

Colares told the court he did not organise the crime but he admitted he shot Sir Peter.

"Then I started to shoot at him as well but without seeing him. I put my arm inside the cabin and began to shoot," he said.

Mr Pastana said the police interrogation had already proved Colares executed Sir Peter.

His co-accused were shown firearms and were questioned by the judge about several handguns.

Another man, Josue Pantoza, was found with the inflatable boat the gang stole from the Seamaster. He was allegedly wearing Sir Peter's watch when he was arrested.

The crew of Seamaster are expected to give evidence in January.

- NZPA

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Peter Blake, 1948-2001