Degree forger charged

Musa Kinda Bah, a Gambian, was, on Tuesday, arraigned before Magistrate Mboto of the Banjul Magistrates Court, on two criminal charges.

According to the prosecution, Musa Kinda Bah, on 4th May, 2006, on count one, gave false information to the president’s office regarding the corrupt practices of some Gamtel officials. On count two, on the same date, he presented false certificates to the managing director of Gamtel, claiming to possess a masters degree in business administration, with a major in finance from the University of Leicester, United Kingdom.

When the case was called before Magistrate Mboto, she asked the accused whether he had a counsel or intended to engage one. He replied affirmatively to the first query but added that his counsel was busy at the Kanifing Magistrates Court.

At that juncture, Magistrate Mboto asked the accused whether the charge sheet could be read to him so he could enter his plea. The accused replied in the affirmative. But the accused pleaded not guilty to both counts.

Magistrate Mboto then went on to grant the accused self-bail at the sum of D50,000, with a Gambian surety.

She also told the accused that the surety should comply with the bail conditions, including an affidavit, his Gambian ID card and a traceable address.

She later adjourned the case to July 2 for hearing. The state was represented by ASP Touray.