Inspector Baba Jallow was the leading the witness. In his testimony, the witness told the court that on the 22nd August, 2025, he was on duty and he received some communication from Commander Lamin Sarr that there were some people gathering around PURA area unlawfully, and was ordered to go there to disperse them.
“We went there and when we alighted, we found an unlawful assembly. Commander Sarr then engaged them. I also told them that their being there was unlawful. I told them to disperse. They started shouting, showing placards and saying that they would not leave. They were subsequently arrested and taken to Kairaba Police Station,” Officer Bah revealed. He further stated that he made a statement.
Under cross-examination by Lawyer Lamin Darboe, the witness was asked whether he knew the meaning of PURA. He answered that it means Public Utility Regulatory Authority.
“It means Public Utilities Regulatory Authority,” Lawyer Darboe rectified him.
“What do you mean by unlawful assembly?” the witness was asked.
“The accused were there without a permit,” Officer Bah answered.
“You arrested them when they did not do anything. They went to PURA area only to submit a petition,” the defence counsel put it to him.
“I was ordered to disperse them because they were there unlawfully,” answered the witness.
“What does PURA do?” Lawyer Darboe asked.
“They regulate SMS and other stuff,” said the witness.
Lawyer Lamin Darboe subsequently applied for the prosecution to provide the defence with the information they rely on to conduct their case. His application was granted and the prosecution was ordered to furnish the defence the information they rely for their case.
Assistant Commissioner Manga assured the court that they would provide all the information the defence needed at their expense.
The matter was adjourned to the 2nd October, 2025, for continuation of cross-examination by the defence.
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