MFDC rebels’ trial adjourned again

The criminal case involving nine members of the MFDC, a Movement of Democratic Rebel Forces in the Senegalese southern region of Casamance, who are standing trial on terrorism charges, at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court, was yesterday adjourned to November 7th and 8th by Principal Magistrate BY Camara of the Banjul Magistrates’ Court.

This was due to the absence of the State Counsel, Emmanuel Fagbenle. The case was expected to undertake a voir-dire (trial within a trial) to prove whether the statements were obtained voluntarily from Sedat Jarjue, first accused and Ebrima Viex Colley, second accused persons. The duo earlier told the court that their statements were obtained under duress, following the first half of the first prosecution witness, last Monday afternoon.

It could be recalled that the nine accused persons last week pleaded guilty on three counts of the eight counts which is still hanging, pending the outcome of the remaining charges that the accused persons have denied.