Three GALA members have been acquitted by Principal Magistrate Sallah Mbye after standing trial on charges of unlawful assembly and common nuisance.

The accused persons had faced prosecution over allegations linked to public order offences, with the matter proceeding before the Magistrates’ Court.

After the court cleared them of the charges, the prosecution officer, Baba Jallow, appearing on behalf of the Inspector General of Police, informed the court that the state intends to appeal the decision.

The prosecution then applied for the accused persons to be granted bail, while requesting that their identity cards remain in the custody of the court for one month.

The prosecution said if no appeal was filed within that period, the accused persons could be discharged.

The defence team challenged the application, arguing that there was no longer any charge against the accused following their acquittal.

Counsel A. Njie submitted that the accused persons have a fundamental right to freedom and urged the court to dismiss the application.

Counsel J. Jobarteh also argued that bail only applies where there is an existing charge before the court, describing the prosecution’s request as an application not recognised in law.

After listening to arguments from both sides, Principal Magistrate Sallah Mbye said he would consider the submissions and deliver a ruling on the application.

The court’s decision on the prosecution’s request is still awaited.

By Adama Makasuba