The trial involving Lamin B. Jarju and 13 others failed to proceed yesterday at the Brikama Magistrates’ Court before Magistrate Dayo Small.
The case was for the accused persons to open their defence but the matter could not proceed as the defence counsel said he had another matter at the High Court.
The case was adjourned till 11 and 12 June 2014, for the accused to open their defence.
The accused are Lamin B. Jarju, Saikou Ceesay, Saikou Sulayman Drammeh, Burama Badjie, Ebrima Gassama, Modou Lamin Conteh, Alhajie Manneh, Sulayman Colley, Kebba Njie, Buba Gaye, Ebrima Bah, Sarjo Sohna, Modou Lamin Jallow and Modou Demba.
The particulars of offence on count one stated that Lamin B. Jarju and 13 others on 20 February 2013, at Makumbaya village, Kombo North, conspired and set fire on 275 cashew trees valued at D75,000 being property of one Francis Mendy, thereby committed an offence.
Count two stated that the accused persons on 20 February 2013 at Makumbaya village, Kombo North, jointly and intentionally damaged 275 cashew trees valued at D75,000 being the property of Francis Mendy, without lawful permission.
Count three stated that the accused persons on 20 February 2013, at Makumbaya village, Kombo North, jointly entered the cashew farm of Francis Mendy with intent to intimidate, insult or annoy the said Francis Mendy, thereby committed an offense.
Count four stated that the accused persons on 20 February 2013, at Makumbaya village, Kombo North, jointly conspired to commit felony.
