16 docked for alleged common nuisance

16 persons were on Wednesday 20 September 2017, arraigned before Principal Magistrate, Omar Cham of the Brikama Magistrates’ Court indicted with three counts of common nuisance, idle and disorderly behaviour and obstruction on a public highway.

The accused persons are: Kalilu Dampha, Jakaria Jallow, Bakary Jadama, Momodou Sanyang, Ebrima Sama, Dembo Beyai, Amadou Jeng, Lamin Saidy, Alieu Sawaneh, Seedy Sanneh, Ensa Demba, Lamin Touray, Assan Touray, Sedia Sanneh, Omar Kuyateh and Modou Njie.

Count one stated that the accused persons on 21 August 2017, between 07:00-08:00 hours at Lamin Village and diverse places in the Kombo North District of West Coast Region, obstructed or caused nuisance, danger and annoyance to the general public.

Count two stated that the accused persons on the said date and place conducted themselves in a manner likely to cause a breach of the peace.

Count three stated that the accused persons on the said date and place wilfully prevented any person or vehicle from passing along Lamin- Tabokoto Highway by obstructing movement on the highway.

Testifying before the court, the first prosecution witness, corporal Fabakary Fatty, recalled that on 21 August 2017, he was at the PIU headquarters in Kanifing when he received an information, through their duty commander, Inspector Jalang, that some people were demonstrating around Lamin-Tabokoto Highway, causing obstruction to traffic on the highway.

The witness revealed that upon receipt of the said information, they left for the scene with other PIU personnel, led by Inspector Kanyi, Sgt Trawally, CPL Nyassi and 1st Class Jatta.

The witness further revealed that on arrival, they saw the accused persons on the highway, obstructing traffic and preventing people from boarding transport. They were chanting “transport fares should not be reduced.”

The witness said the accused persons were arrested and taken to Yumdum Police Station.

Hearing continues on 10 October 2017.