Gambiaj.com – (Banjul, The Gambia) – The High Court in Banjul continues to hear the murder trial of the late Ousman Jarju, with a crucial mini trial (voir dire) underway to determine the admissibility of key statements by the principal accused, Hadim Jeng.

At the latest court sitting, Jeng testified that his statements to the police were obtained through coercion. He alleged that he was physically assaulted while in custody at the Kotu Police Station and that the statements presented to the court were neither written by him nor made voluntarily.

In response, the presiding judge, Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, instructed Jeng to produce a witness to corroborate his claims of police brutality. The mini trial is expected to resume on May 20, 2025, at 11:00 AM, when the defense is anticipated to bring forward the witness to support the allegations.

Hadim Jeng is standing trial alongside Muhammed Njie and Muhammed Touray in connection with the fatal stabbing of Ousman Jarju, which took place near Palma Rima Beach on September 8, 2021. All three men have pleaded not guilty to the murder charges.

The outcome of this mini trial is seen as pivotal, as it could determine whether Jeng’s statements will be admitted as evidence in the main trial—a decision that may significantly shape the direction of the case.

Court proceedings are set to continue with heightened scrutiny as the defense seeks to substantiate claims of rights violations during police interrogation.