Slovak PM shooting suspect faces prolonged custody

BRATISLAVA, Nov. 21 (Xinhua) -- The custody of the suspect in the May shooting of Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, has been extended by four months, Prosecutor-General Maros Zilinka announced Thursday.

The Specialized Criminal Court in Pezinok granted the extension, citing the risk of escape and potential further criminal activity. Fico sustained four gunshot wounds during the May 15 attack in Handlova while greeting supporters after a government meeting.

The court's decision follows a motion by the Prosecutor-General's Office to keep the suspect, identified as Juraj C., in pre-trial detention.