Africa-Press – Gambia. Ousainou Faal, a former credit officer at Reliance Financial Services’ Brusubi Branch, has been granted bail by Magistrate K. Baldeh following allegations that he misappropriated over D1.9 million from his employer.
Faal faces charges of theft by a clerk or servant under Section 258 of the Criminal Code. According to the prosecution, in 2024, he allegedly stole D1,916,436.00 that had been entrusted to him by women’s organizations and vendors. The funds were intended for deposit into the company’s accounts, but authorities claim that Faal failed to do so, prompting a police investigation and subsequent criminal proceedings.
During the court session, the charge was read to Faal in Wolof, to which he pleaded not guilty. His plea was formally recorded by the court. The prosecution requested an adjournment to call their first witness, indicating that further evidence would be presented in subsequent hearings.
Deputy Commissioner A. Manga represented the Inspector General of Police (IGP) in court, while Faal was represented by counsel Fakebba Darboe and L. Sanyang. The defence requested that the prosecution provide copies of all evidence they intended to rely on during the trial. The prosecution consented but highlighted that the file was “bulky,” consisting of detailed fraud reports and financial records, and asked that the defence bear the photocopying costs. Defence counsel emphasized the importance of reasonable bail and urged the court to maintain the conditions previously set by police.
In his ruling, Magistrate Baldeh granted bail on the condition that Faal submit a title deed for a leasehold property within the court’s jurisdiction. The property must be valued at least equivalent to the alleged stolen amount of D1,916,436.00. This measure ensures sufficient security for the accused’s release while proceedings continue.
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