By Nicholas Bass
The state lead counsel AM Yusuf on Monday disclosed the identity of PW4 as an undercover and he cannot openly testify in the ongoing treason trial involving Lance Corporal Sanna Fadera and co before Justice Basiru VP. Mahoney of Banjul High Court.
Counsel AM Yusuf, at the beginning of the proceedings, disclosed to the court that “PW4 has been undercover for over a decade and his testimony before an open court will endanger his life.”
The defense counsel Lamin S. Camara objected, stressing that the state counsel’s application before the court was insufficient, for he failed to identify PW4 to his colleagues before the sitting.
Justice Basiru VP. Mahoney at this juncture ordered a stand down to talk to the counsels.
This made the relatives of the accused persons worried while a pair of them (undisclosed) said “let us see what will happen in this treason case for which PW4 was said to be undercover at the court. What is going on in this treason trial against our people?” they cried.
When the case resume from the short break, Justice Basiru VP. Mahoney ordered the state counsels to file an affidavit to the court before the 17th of March 2023 regarding PW4 identity before adjourning the matter for today (Tuesday) for continuation at 2:00 pm.
Meanwhile, Lance Corporal Sanna Fadera, the ring leader is facing charges of conspiracy, treason, and mutiny.
Petty Officer Gibril Darboe and Corporal Ebrima Sannoh stand charges of conspiracy, treason, and concealment of treason, Sub-inspector FabakaryJawara is facing charges of conspiracy, treason, and concealment of treason while Corporal Omar Njie is standing trial on concealment of treason.