Jobarteh Asks For Reduction Of D58.7 Million Bail

Defence Counsel Junkung Jobarteh Tuesday filed a motion at the Kanifing Magistrate’s Court, to reduce the bail sum of D58.7 million, imposed on his client, Babucarr Jobarteh.

Jobarteh has been accused of defrauding one Ebrima S Camara, by obtaining bags of rice worth D58,530,000 on the pretext of paying at a later date, which he failed to do.

He was slammed with a single count charge of obtaining goods by false pretence, and he pleaded not guilty to the charge.

Submitting his motion before Magistrate Binta Sowe, Counsel Jobarteh said the applicant’s family had done every effort to raise the bail sum, but could not.

“The applicant is currently remanded at Mile 2 Prison. The applicant’s family was unable to raise the said sum. We are asking the court to vary the bail condition downwards, as well as remove the condition of depositing D10 million, and also reduce the three properties to one property. The bail is not a substitute for punishment, but merely to ensure the attendance of the detainee or prisoner to court. The Court of Appeal said the bail is fundamental, and the conditions must ensure the appearance of the accused person or prisoner to the court.

“So, as the motion was not opposed, we hereby pray that this court vary the first condition, that is, the deposit of D10 million, reduce the three properties to one property, and maintain the sureties. We also urge the court to order that the travelling documents be deposited with the court,” he pleaded.

This was opposed by the police prosecutor, Inspector Jallow. The case has been adjourned to 17th November for ruling on the bail application.