Pablo Djabi, a man facing drug and related charges in The Gambia, has applied to the High Court for permission to travel outside the country for medical reasons. Djabi’s request comes after being diagnosed with a kidney condition that requires urgent treatment.
In December 2023, Justice Francis A. Achibonga granted Djabi bail but restricted him from leaving the country. The bail conditions included a bond of D120,000,000 with two sureties, the deposit of his international passports with the court, and a requirement to report to the Drug Law Enforcement Agency office every Tuesday.
Djabi, through his lawyer Kadijatou Jallow, filed a motion before Justice Jaiteh seeking permission to travel abroad for medical treatment. Djabi explained in a sworn statement that he was diagnosed with a kidney stone and hydronephrosis, which require extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy at Kanifing General Hospital.
Djabi stated that his health condition has been affecting him and his business, emphasizing that without intervention, his health is likely to deteriorate significantly. He expressed willingness to comply with any conditions set by the court to ensure his return, highlighting his business interests in The Gambia as a guarantee against absconding.
The State prosecutor, Senior Counsel Lamin Jarju, indicated opposition to the application. The case was adjourned to April 9, 2024, for further proceedings.
