Babou Loum, an Independent witness in the ongoing treason trial, yesterday continued his testimony in the voir dire (trial within a trial) into the cautionary statement obtained from Tamsir Jasseh, Alieu Jobe, Omar Faal Keita and Demba Dem.

Testifying under cross examination by Defence Counsel, Lamin Jobarteh, who appeared for the 6th and 8th accused persons, Mr. Loum told the court that it was during the day that he witnessed the signing of a statement obtained from Alieu Jobe and Omar Faal Keita- 6th and 7th accused persons, but could not remember when Demba Dem, the 8th accused person’s statements were signed.

According to him, he was with Alieu Jobe in the NIA office when he was signing for him (Jobe) as an Independent witness in the presence of Sgt Lamin Cham, Boto Keita and Abdoulie Sowe.

Mr. Loum, who appeared as the last prosecution witness in the voir dire told the court that Alieu Jobe wrote his own statement before being questioned by Boto Keita.

Mr. Loum further said that when Omar Faal Keita made his statements it was in his presence and ‘there were no armed officers at the time’. He added that three voluntary statements were also taken from him at the State Central Prisons, Mile Two.

When put to him that it was two voluntary statements that were obtained from the accused, Mr. Loum said it could be true, because it was a long time ago, and he might forget as to how many voluntary statements were obtained from the accused persons.

He also told the court that he doesn’t know how long the accused was detained at the State Central Prisons.

On the case of Demba Dem, former NAM for Niani, Mr. Loum said he remembered that the accused made only one cautionary statement, but cannot remember how many voluntary statements were taken from him.

According to him, the accused actually did not write his own statement as it was obtained from him at the Major Crime Office at the NIA.

When put to him that there is no Major Crime Office at the NIA, except Banjul Police Station by Defence Counsel Jobarteh, he replied that during that period the office was moved to the NIA Headquarters.

He also told the court that a Lawyer was not present when the statements were obtained from him. When put to him that he is not a truthful witness by Counsel Jobarteh, Mr. Loum disagreed.

At that juncture, the case was adjourned to May 2, for continuation.