Former Argentinian naval officer Alfredo Astiz appears in court today to account for his role during General Videla's military dictatorship.

Under the regime, from 1976 until 1983, an estimated 30,000 political opponents were arrested never to be seen again. They are missing, presumed dead, their bodies dumped at sea.

Alfredo Astiz will stand trial along with 18 other military personnel. The case will focus on the disappearance of two French nuns, Léonie Duquet and Alice Domon. Almost 20 years ago, a French court sentenced Mr Astiz in absentia to life imprisonment in connection with their disappearance.