By: Sering Mass Jallow
Kanifing Magistrates’ Court, presided over by Magistrate A. Manneh, Wednesday sentenced two women to pay D40,000 each as compensation to a minor for assault, while a third accused remains at large.
The case involved Adama Colley, Mamundaw Saidy, and Fatou Colley, all charged with assault and conspiracy to commit a felony. According to the particulars of the offence, on 29 July 2025 in Serrekunda, Kanifing Municipality, the accused allegedly co-conspired to unlawfully assault one-year-old Mariama Mbaye, by pouring a mixture of vinegar, black pepper, and candle wax on her genitals, causing actual bodily harm.
Sub-Inspector D. Jammeh, representing the Inspector General of Police, brought two counts against the accused: conspiracy to commit a felony under Section 341 of the Criminal Offense Act 2023, and assault causing bodily harm under Section 196 of the same Act.
During the proceedings, two of the accused pleaded guilty while the third, Fatou Colley, remains at large. Magistrate Manneh described the victim as a vulnerable child subjected to physical abuse and genital pain, rejecting claims by the accused that the actions were meant to discipline her. Medical certificates submitted to the court confirmed burns to the child’s thighs and pubic hair from the candle wax.
The prosecution successfully applied to withdraw the count of conspiracy to commit felony against the first and second accused under Section 78 of the Criminal Procedure Act. The court granted the application, discharging them of the first count.
Magistrate Manneh, citing Section 191(1) of the Criminal Procedure Act, ordered Adama Colley and Mamundaw Saidy to pay D40,000 each as compensation to the victim. In default of payment, they will serve a custodial sentence of one year. The case was adjourned “sine die” pending the arrest of the third accused.
The prosecution also applied for a bench warrant for the third accused under Section 133 of the Criminal Procedure Act. The court will continue proceedings once Fatou Colley is apprehended.
