Alleged 'assassin' says trip was for 'touristy things'

AN alleged American would-be 'assassin' accused of trying to shoot a man in Birmingham claims she flew into the UK for “random touristy things,” ranging from music events and boat parties to street art and dog-sitting.

- STEPHANIE BALLO0

US citizen Aimee Betro, 45, from Wisconsin, is alleged to have worn a burka and niqab disguise as she went to shoot Sikander Ali - only for her gun to jam outside his home in Measham Grove, Yardley shortly after 8pm on September 7, 2019.

She is also alleged to have returned to the address a few hours later and shot three bullets at his property, which went through the windows.

Betro denies conspiracy to murder, possessing a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence and fraudulently evading a prohibition on the importation of ammunition.

As the defence opened its case at her trial, Betro told jurors at Birmingham Crown Court she visited the UK three times in a year - the final of which in September was to celebrate her birthday.