The High Court in Banjul has acquitted and discharged Ousainou Bojang of all charges in the long‑running Sukuta–Jabang traffic lights shooting case, bringing to an end a legal battle that has captured national attention for nearly three years.
Presided over by Justice Ebrima Jaiteh, the court delivered its verdict on Monday in a packed courtroom, finding that the prosecution had failed to establish Bojang’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Bojang had faced multiple charges, including murder, attempted murder and acts of terrorism relating to the September 2023 incident in which two police officers were killed and another injured.
Throughout the trial, the defence consistently challenged the State’s evidence, disputing witness accounts and highlighting the absence of forensic links connecting Bojang to the crime. Lawyers led by counsel Lamin J. Darboe argued that key prosecution testimony was unreliable, and that crucial forensic evidence — such as DNA, fingerprints or ballistic links — was never presented. The defence also offered alibi evidence supported by digital communication logs and witness testimony placing Bojang elsewhere at the time of the shooting.
In her ruling, Justice Jaiteh said the burden of proof rested with the prosecution and that, in light of inconsistencies and gaps in the evidence, the court could not convict Bojang on any of the counts. With that, Bojang was acquitted and immediately discharged, to relief from his supporters and family members present in court.
Public response has been mixed, with some celebrating what they see as a victory for fair justice, while others express concern about the challenges of prosecuting high‑profile cases. Legal analysts say the verdict highlights the importance of robust evidence and adherence to due process in the country’s justice system.
Written By Salieu Njie
