By Mariama Marong
The trial of an elderly man accused of raping a minor over a period of three years has entered its final stage at the Banjul High Court, with Justice Sidi Jobarteh setting July 24, 2025, as the date for delivering judgment.
The accused, Ebrima Joof, is charged with rape under Section 3(1)(a), punishable under Section 4(i)(a)(iii)(cc) of the Sexual Offences Act, 2013. According to the particulars of the offense, Joof allegedly engaged in coercive sexual acts with a minor between 2020 and 2023 in a village located in the West Coast Region, leading to the girl’s pregnancy.
During Monday’s sitting, the court proceeded to adopt final written briefs in preparation for judgment, despite the absence of the defense counsel, F. Taal Saho. The state was represented by H. Drammeh, who led the prosecution throughout the trial.
The prosecution called six witnesses and tendered four exhibits, including cautionary and voluntary statements made by the accused, the victim’s medical report, witness statements, and the minor’s birth certificate. These documents, the prosecution argued, established a clear link between the accused and the offense.
In contrast, the defense did not call any witnesses nor did it submit any evidence to counter the prosecution’s claims. The only testimony came from the accused himself, who vehemently denied any sexual involvement with the victim. Joof described the allegations as conspiratorial, claiming he was being falsely accused.
“It is a sinful and embarrassing act that I will never get involved in,” Joof told the court during his testimony, maintaining his innocence and describing himself as a responsible man.
Despite the defense’s absence on Monday, Justice Jobarteh proceeded to adopt the final legal briefs, signaling that the case was ready for judgment. “The matter is adjourned to the 24th of July 2025 for the court’s verdict,” she declared.
