Zim court keeps alleged plotters in jail

A Zimbabwean court says 45 suspects facing treason charges must stay in jail until their hearing next week to give prosecutors time to prepare the case against them.

State prosecutors said Tuesday they were not ready to present their case against the group arrested last month for attending a lecture on North African anti-government protests.

They are accused of plotting an Egyptian-style uprising in Zimbabwe.

The group says it was an academic lecture and denies wrongdoing. Treason carries a possible death sentence.

Prosecutor Edmore Nyazamba says he needs more time to prepare before the March 7 hearing.

Defense lawyers say the suspects are not guilty should be released immediately. Lawyers say some suspects have been tortured in police custody.—Sapa-AP