The court’s failure to proceed with trials has raised concerns about delays in the justice system and potential corruption. /Nimba Public Defender Tarlo N. Wehyee
Sanniquellie – The Eighth Judicial Circuit Court in Sanniquellie, Nimba County, has released over 50 suspects involved in serious crimes, including armed robbery, murder, and rape, without facing trial since 2023.
By Franklin Doloquee, [email protected]
The court’s failure to proceed with trials has raised concerns about delays in the justice system and potential corruption.
Sources within the court have revealed that these suspects, many of whom were arrested on charges of armed robbery, murder, and rape, have been held in detention for months, some for more than two years, without being brought to trial.
Among the most high-profile cases is that of Abu Weamie, a notorious Ivorian armed robber arrested in Ganta in 2023. Despite spending four court terms, or roughly two years, in detention, Weamie has not faced any judgment.
The situation has prompted complaints from residents and victims who are seeking justice. Some have accused court workers of deliberately delaying cases to benefit from jail delivery schemes.
Additionally, sources claim that some suspects were released after allegedly paying large bribes, only to be re-arrested for returning to their criminal activities.
Court workers have reportedly boasted of having protection from high-ranking officials, including Vice President Jeremiah Koung, and claim they are immune to reassignment or dismissal.
Attempts by our correspondent to speak with the County Attorney, the Resident Judge, and Public Defenders have been met with refusal, as they distanced themselves from inquiries.
The failure of the judiciary to deliver timely justice has led to widespread criticism. Observers warn that the ongoing delays could lead to mob violence and further unrest in the county’s magisterial courts.
In Ganta, residents have called for the replacement of two magistrates at the Gompa Magisterial Court, alleging that their lack of legal training – they only completed a six-month course – has led to questionable decisions, including allowing one magistrate’s wife to join him in judging cases.
