Ex-jungler operative Lieutenant Colonel Sanna Manjang has been sent back to Mile Two remand after the High Court rejected his bail bid during his first appearance before the court.

Manjang, who is facing multiple charges including the killing of veteran Gambian journalist Deyda Hydara, appeared in court under heavy security, dressed in a worn t-shirt.

Following the hearing, he was promptly returned to custody.

Justice Sidi K. Jobarteh delivered the ruling after hearing from Manjang’s lawyer, Sheriffo Kumba Jobe, who argued that his client had been denied access to his legal team.

“My client has a right to be respected,” Jobe told the court, describing the denial as a breach of Manjang’s constitutional rights.

The State, represented by the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), countered that investigators faced challenges because Manjang had “refused to talk to the investigator,” complicating efforts to determine his need for legal counsel.

In her ruling, Justice Jobarteh stressed that access to a lawyer is a fundamental right.

She instructed the Director General of Prisons to immediately facilitate meetings between Manjang and his legal team.

However, she upheld the Magistrate’s Court detention order, keeping Manjang in custody while the State prepares a formal bill of indictment.

The court also ordered that the prosecution file the indictment by the next adjourned date, warning against unnecessary delays in a case that has captured national attention.

Manjang’s arraignment is now scheduled for Thursday, 15th January 2026.

By Adama Makasuba