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09.05.2007 General News

Daasebre Gyamena Faces Re-Trial

By Daily Graphic
Daasebre Gyamena Faces Re-Trial
09.05.2007 LISTEN

A fresh process has begun at the Isleworth Crown Court in London for the re-trial of Ghanaian musician Daasebre Gyamena, for allegedly importing 100 kilogrammes of cocaine into the United Kingdom in July last year.

At the beginning of the re-trial, Presiding Judge Mark McDowell swore in a 12-member jury comprising five women and seven men. Among the 12 are Daniel Opodu, a Black African, and two Asians, contrary to the all-White jury during the first trial in November last year.

The re-trial became obligatory following the failure of the 12-member jury to reach a verdict on two occasions in the first trial.

In this second attempt however, the same procedure and evidences, as well as witnesses, could be used by either the prosecution or the defence.

Daasebre is led in his defence by Mr Joe Stone, the same solicitor who led him during the void trial in November last year.

The principal witness for Daasebre who happens to be one of his managers, Fred Nuamah, was not in court due to visa constraints.

The court learnt that Nuamah was facing difficulties at the British High Commission in Accra. The court accordingly ordered a fax message to be sent to the High Commission directing it to issue him a visa. He was, therefore, expected to arrive in London within 12 hours to be in court.

Mr Kwabena Donkor, alias Kumasi Market, one of the prosecution witnesses, was, however, present. Also in court were a handful of Ghanaians including one of Daasebre's sisters. The case was adjourned to today.

Story by Nana Sifa Twum

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