By Bruce Asemota
Justice Kumba Sillah-Camara yesterday ordered that six former officers of the defunct NIA on trial should not appear in her court until they conduct themselves “properly”.
The men are being tried on multiple counts including for the murder of Solo Sandeng, torture, abduction, causing actual and grievous bodily harm, forgery and making false documents.
During yesterday’s sitting, seven accused men were asked to enter the dock but six of them; Yankuba Badjie, Sheikh Omar Jeng, Haruna Susso, Babucarr Sallah and Lamin Darboe refused. Only Lamin Lang Sanyang agreed to enter the dock.
The six said they were protesting against the judge’s refusal to recuse herself from the case.
The judge said it has become habitual for the accused to protest in court and thereby conduct themselves in a manner disrespectful to the court.
She stated that the conduct of the six accused persons is “unacceptable” and noted that the trial will proceed in their absence.
The prosecution led by senior lawyer Antouman Gaye informed the court that the five witnesses ordered by the Gambia Court of Appeal to call and be cross-examined by the defence were available.
Hearing continues today.
