Court Orders Updates on Former Skye Bank Manager’s Custody and Health Status

Justice Memoh Jak Stevens, overseeing the manslaughter case involving former Skye Bank Managing Director IKubolaje Nicol (Bola Nicol), has directed the Director General of Correctional Services to provide the court with regular updates on the accused’s location and medical condition.

This decision follows a complaint by defence lawyer Rowland Wright, who informed the court that on Friday, May 10th, 2024, unidentified individuals in uniform abruptly moved the accused from Connaught Hospital to a prison without consulting his medical doctor or providing any written documentation.

Lawyer Wright revealed that this incident occurred after a court hearing on May 7th, 2024, when the accused returned to the hospital for ongoing treatment. Justice Adrian Fisher had previously ordered the accused to remain at the hospital based on a recommendation from a medical doctor at the correctional center, citing inadequate facilities there.

Describing the removal of the accused from the hospital as “contempt of court” and “direct interference with the accused’s health,” Lawyer Wright emphasized that the accused remains under the jurisdiction of the court until proven guilty and sentenced.

In response, lead state prosecutor Lawyer Aruna Jalloh argued that once an accused is remanded at the Correctional Centre, the Director General of Correctional Services assumes jurisdiction over their welfare until the remand order is revoked. He advised the defence to address their concerns through the Correctional Services.

Justice Momoh-Jah Stevens underscored that the accused’s right to innocence must be respected until proven guilty, emphasizing the importance of upholding the accused’s rights.

During the same session, the fifth prosecution witness, Chief Inspector of Police Brima Sama, informed the court that attempts to locate Dr. Mohamed Alie Bangura of Shuman Hospital, a subpoenaed witness, were unsuccessful.

The case is set to resume on Tuesday, May 14th, 2024. The accused faces charges of conspiracy to commit manslaughter, manslaughter, and perverting the course of justice.