Sensitive cases can be held longer: Magistrate

THE court may allow longer adjournments for sensitive criminal cases so that police can properly conduct investigations, says a magistrate.
Magistrate Tracy Ganaii yesterday told police prosecutor Sgt Joseph Sangam in a sexual abuse case involving two men and a female relative that the court could allow a longer adjournment if the case’s circumstance warrants it.
The court heard that the case was first heard in March last year but police were yet to submit file.
She told Sangam that if the investigator needed the case to be adjourned for a month or two, he should “justify that and we can adjourn for that to happen”.
“Especially in cases like this where a child is involved, where a medical report needs to be obtained, or in serious cases of corruption where police need to get search warrants, search properties and compile files,” Magistrate Ganaii said.
“We don’t need to just keep calling the case when (police) need more time for investigations.
“That is why the three-month (period) was taken off.”
She said the case before the court was taking too long.
“It will be one year in March and they’re waiting for the file to be brought to court.
“The court cannot make proper decisions without assistance,” Magistrate Ganaii said. “Prosecutors need to talk to the investigators.
“They have to file proper affidavits explaining why they need more time.
“If not, the court can exercise its discretion in favour of the defendants if they make an application to be discharged.”
She adjourned the case to Feb 9.
One of the two men was granted a K2,000 bail while the other was remanded in custody.