The former No. 1 Permanent Secretary at the Department of State for Foreign Affairs, Willy Joof, yesterday appeared at the Banjul Magistrates’ Court. However the case, which was schedule for hearing before Magistrate Sagarr Cecilia Jahateh, could not proceed as the defence lawyer was absent.

It could be recalled that the accused was recently arrested and charged on two count charges of official corruption contrary to section 86 of the criminal code cap. 10, volume 3, Laws of The Gambia 1990.

In count one, the particulars of offence read that Willy Joof between May and August 2002 while employed in the public service of The Gambia as Ambassador to France corruptly received the sum of 24,391 Euro from one Gerrard Nuss as a condition for appointing the latter into the consular service of The Gambia, thereby committing an offence.

The particulars of offence in count two stated that that Willy Joof on or about 20th May 2006 while employed in the public service as ambassador to France received a brand new Peugeot 607 bearing chassis number XF3, 9DXFXF92 111193 and registration number 9186 WWB92 valued at 26,448.18 Euro from one Michel Coencas as a condition for appointing him into the consular service of The Gambia thereby committing an offence.

The accused has since denied the charges preferred against him by the authorities.

The case was adjourned to 31st October for continuation. ASP Bojang represented the state.