Congolese war crimes suspect Bosco Ntaganda today made his initial appearance before the International Criminal Court (ICC), following his transfer from the US Embassy in Kigali to the Hague-based tribunal last Friday.

He pleaded not guilty to the war crimes and crimes against humanity charges against him – crimes he allegedly committed when he was a rebel leader in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).

Ntaganda, who surprised many when he turned himself in at the US Embassy more than a week ago – seven years since he was first indicted by the court, faces 10 counts including rape, murder and using child soldiers.

In court, Gen. Ntaganda was informed of the charges and was told a confirmation hearing would be held on September 23 to determine whether there is enough evidence to put him on trial.