The trial of one Bendukureh Bah, who is alleged of engaging in illegal production of charcoal commenced at the Brikama Magistrates' Court before Magistrate Mahoney.
Adducing his evidence, Jereba Barrow, a Forestry Officer told the court that on 19th June 2009, the Director of Forestry called at the Forestry Divisional Office in Brikama to inform them that he got a report that there were some people engaged in illegal production of charcoal at Kunkujang Mariama. He added that upon his arrival at the scene he found the accused cutting down trees and packed them in one place.
He adduced that he asked the accused what he was going to do with the trees, adding that the accused in response told him that he was sent by someone.
Mr. Barrow further told the court that he told the accused that "it was allowed for firewood and not for charcoal". He said he then took the accused to their office and later reported the matter to the Brikama Police Station.
The case was adjourned to 2nd July 2009.
