A former Malaysian defence attache goes on trial in the Wellington High Court today accused of attacking a Wellington woman.
Muhammad Rizalman, left, leaves the Wellington District Court last year. Photo: RNZ / Diego Opatowski
Muhammad Rizalman has pleaded not guilty to a charge of assaulting Tania Billingsley with intent to commit sexual violation. He also denies a charge of burglary.
Ms Billingsley took court action last year allowing her to waive her right to name suppression.
Mr Rizalman was initially charged in May last year but was allowed to leave the country. He returned to New Zealand in October to face the charges.
Justice David Collins will preside over the jury trial, which is expected to run for two weeks.