Kanimang Bajo, the man accused of collecting more than D50 million from over 100 people under the pretext of facilitating Hajj pilgrimages, is scheduled to appear before the Kanifing Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday, 14 July, at 10:00 a.m.

Bajo is currently being held at Mile 2 Central Prison pending his appearance before the court.

According to the alleged victims, the case centres on claims that Bajo collected millions of dalasis from prospective pilgrims after promising to arrange their travel to Saudi Arabia for the annual Hajj pilgrimage.

They allege that despite making the required payments, many were unable to undertake the pilgrimage, leading to complaints that resulted in his arrest and prosecution.

The alleged victims said they want the case to be heard in an open and transparent manner.

The matter has drawn widespread public attention because of the amount of money allegedly involved and the number of people said to have been affected.

Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a once-in-a-lifetime religious obligation for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it.

Many Gambians spend years saving for the pilgrimage and rely on licensed Hajj operators and travel agents to organise the journey.

Tuesday’s proceedings are expected to mark another stage in the criminal case against Bajo. The allegations remain before the court, and he is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in accordance with the law.

By Adama Makasuba