By The Associated Press

THE HAGUE, Netherlands - The International Criminal Court says the war crimes trial of former Congo Vice-President Jean-Pierre Bemba will begin in April.

Bemba faces five charges of crimes against humanity and war crimes including murder, rape and pillage.

Prosecutors allege he commanded troops responsible for atrocities during the civil war in the Central African Republic in 2002-2003.

At an evidentiary hearing in January, a defence lawyer told judges that Bemba cracked down on commanders responsible for abusing civilians.

Thursday's ruling says his trial will begin April 27.

Bemba is the most senior political figure in the custody of the world's first permanent war crimes tribunal.