Suspect in court for Sarro conflagration

Aji Mbahi Ndure, the suspect in the recent conflagration at Sarro, near Denton Bridge, has been arraigned at the Banjul Magistrates' Court for allegedly setting fire to crops.

Mrs. Ndure pleaded not guilty to the charge before Principal Magistrate Emmanuel Nkea, and was granted court bail in the sum of D500, 000, with two Gambians sureties, all of whom must have a landed property within the Greater Banjul Area.

According to the particulars of offence, Aji Mbahi Ndure on 16th April 2010, at the Gambia Groundnut Corporation area (Sarro) wilfully and unlawfully set fire to the groundnut shells, which subsequently burnt the cashew plantations belonging to Fafa Ceesay, Jagineh Wada and Momodou Jallow, all valued at D15, 000.

In applying for bail, counsel for the accused person, Batch Kelly, told the court that the accused is an elderly person, who would be available anytime the court needs her, if granted bail.

The case was subsequently adjourned to 17th May 2010 for hearing.