Baghdad, Iraq, Oct 19, SPA -- The first trial in the prosecution of Saddam Hussein on charges of crimes against humanity has begun in Baghdad's heavily fortified Green Zone with a lesser-known case in which more than 140 Iraqis were killed. The former dictator, along with seven of his followers, was expected to answer questions about a 1982 massacre in the town of Dujail, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) north of Baghdad. Saddam's attorney said Tuesday he will ask for a delay of at least three months to further prepare for the trial of the ousted Iraqi leader. An Iraqi government official described the trial as the beginning of the nation's psychological healing. The landmark trial is taking place just four days after Iraq's constitutional referendum. CNN Chief International Correspondent Christiane Amanpour is at the courthouse said security is extremely tight. "This is the old Baath Party headquarters inside the Green Zone, and the first thing that strikes you about this operation is the massive security," Amanpour said.--SPA1256 Local Time 0956 GMT www.spa.gov.sa/297312