By Dawda M Jallow
Papa Jaw was decisively convicted yesterday by Magistrate Sallah M’Bai at the Kanifing Magistrates’ Court for stealing from Jaafar Company, where he held the position of storekeeper.
Prosecutor Vincent L. Jatta, representing the Inspector General of Police, clearly outlined that Papa was charged with “Stealing by Clerk and Servant,” in direct violation of Section 258 of the Criminal Code, Cap 10.01, Volume 3, Revised Laws of The Gambia 2009.
The evidence presented showed that on January 26, 2025, at Old Jeshwang in the Kanifing Municipal Council, Papa willfully stole 243 cartons of mustard, valued at D214,950.00, belonging to Jaafar Company Limited.
Papa admitted his guilty to the charges. Prosecutor Jatta detailed that the 243 cartons of mustard in various categories were missing, with a total value of D214,950.00. Upon confrontation regarding the theft, Papa did not deny his wrongdoing.
In her ruling, Principal Magistrate Sallah M’Bai emphasized that, given Papa’s unwavering guilty plea both before and after the facts were presented, and the fact that he did not waste the court’s time, she would exercise leniency. However, she made it clear that he must face consequence to learn from his actions.
Therefore, Magistrate M’Bai sentenced Papa to pay a mandatory fine of D10,000.00, with a default punishment of 1 year in prison if he fails to comply. Additionally, he is required to pay compensation to the complainant for the stolen items in the amount of D214,950.00, with a default penalty of 2 years in prison for non-payment.