Four residents of the village of Makumbaya in the Kombo North, Western Region: Alagie Kujabi, Bensenty Gomez, Yankuba Jammeh and Babucarr Mendy, who were standing trial before Principal Magistrate Emmanuel had their case transferred to the Brikama Magistrates' Court for trial.
This latest development follows the prosecution, Chief Inspector Badjie's application for count two, which is criminal trespass to be transferred to the Brikama Magistrates' Court as the Banjul Magistrates' Court lacks the jurisdiction to hear the matter.
Magistrate Emmanuel Nkea granted the application and henceforth transferred the entire case to the Brikama Magistrates' Court which has the jurisdiction to try the accused persons.
According to him, it would be very difficult for the accused persons to be travelling between the two courts. He noted that since the alleged offence was committed in Makumbaya village, which falls within the jurisdiction of Western Region, it would be proper for the accused persons to be tried at Brikama Magistrates' Court.
The accused persons are charged with criminal trespass and giving false information to a public servant, a charge they vehemently denied.
Emmanuel Nkea granted them bail in sum of D100, 000 each with one Gambian surety.
