The High Court of Gambia is currently hearing a high-profile case involving a D58.9 million property dispute. The case, GACH Global vs. Kaddijatou Kebbeh and Saihou Drameh, began in January 2022. It seeks to recover funds allegedly obtained through a fraudulent petroleum supply deal. The plaintiff, GACH Global Trading Company Limited, is led by its CEO Abubakary Jawara. The defendants are Kaddijatou Kebbeh, a former employee of GACH Global, and Saihou Drammeh, the former Managing Director of the Gam Petroleum Storage Facility.
During cross-examination, the plaintiff's counsel, Ida Drameh, questioned Saihou Drammeh about previous complaints involving property transactions and financial dealings connected to Kebba Ceesay. Counsel Drameh suggested that Drammeh had previously complained that Ceesay received money on his behalf for the purchase of two apartments valued at €48,000. However, these apartments were subsequently registered in Ceesay's own name. Drammeh firmly rejected the allegation.
Counsel Drameh then shifted her focus to lawyer Essa Faal, asking the witness if he knew him. The witness confirmed that he did know Essa Faal. Counsel Drameh further suggested that Essa Faal owed money, a proposition the witness acknowledged. However, Saihou Drammeh denied saying that Essa Faal was using the said money for politics.
The case involves a complex web of financial transactions and allegations of fraud. GACH Global alleges that the defendants fraudulently acquired and retained company funds tied to a September 2021 petroleum product agreement. The company is demanding a principal sum of D58,961,150 allegedly obtained and retained under false pretences.
In addition to the principal sum, GACH Global is also seeking petroleum payment of $221,000 for petroleum products meant to be supplied by Gam Petroleum. The company is also demanding commission and fees of $1,600 in commission paid to Kebbeh, plus D1,000,000 in legal and administrative fees. The case is presided over by Justice Ebrima Jaiteh.
The mention of Essa Faal's name in the case has significant implications, given his prominence in Gambian politics and law. The case has sparked interest among the public and the legal community. The outcome of the case is expected to have far-reaching consequences for all parties involved.
The case is ongoing, with further proceedings expected in the coming weeks. The court's decision will determine the fate of the defendants and the plaintiff. Key points in the case include the alleged fraudulent acquisition of D58.9 million and the involvement of prominent figures such as Essa Faal.
Key points
- The case involves a D58.9 million property dispute and allegations of fraud.
- Lawyer Essa Faal's name was mentioned during the cross-examination of Saihou Drammeh.
- The case is presided over by Justice Ebrima Jaiteh and is ongoing.
