Abubacarr Saidykhan, who appeared yesterday before Justice Ebrima Jaiteh at the Banjul High Court, was first charged with rape in October 2021, a non-bailable offence.
He pleaded not guilty, leading to a trial where the prosecution called five witnesses and presented multiple exhibits. However, in July 2024, the prosecution modified the charge, instead accusing him of defilement, which carries a maximum sentence of seven years.
With the new charge, Saidykhan pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual intercourse with a girl aged between 16 and 18 years. His lawyer, C. Ojoku pleaded for leniency, citing his remorse, early guilty plea, medical condition, and role as his family's primary provider.
Counsel Ojoku stated that the convict entered an early guilty plea, thus demonstrating his sincerity and saving the court's valuable time.
Additionally, the counsel said the convict was suffering from a medical condition. “In light of these circumstances, we respectfully request that the court exercise mercy and consider these factors in delivering its sentence,” he pleaded.
The presiding judge, Justice Jaiteh, acknowledging the severity of the offence but also considering the time already served, sentenced Saidykhan to imprisonment equal to his remand period. As a result, he was immediately released.
