In a dramatic development in the ongoing Court Martial trial, Warrant Officer Class 2 Adikali Turay contested the validity of his police statement during testimony on Tuesday, July 30, 2024.

Turay, who has served in the military for 29 years and is currently attached to the Arms Office Personnel Centre as a clerk, claimed that the thumbprint on his statement was not his and that the document did not accurately reflect his statements to investigators.

Turay asserted that he was not given the opportunity to have his lawyer present during the statement-taking process and that none of his relatives were there to witness the procedure. He also claimed that the investigators failed to read the statement back to him and did not caution him regarding the allegations.

seeing Koita at the Cockerill Military Headquarters on the day of the alleged coup attempt, November 26, 2023. He also refuted claims that he saw Staff Sergeant Abu Dauda and others involved in the alleged mutiny or that he observed any meetings related to the coup. Turay maintained his innocence, asserting that he has never faced disciplinary action throughout his military career and called for his acquittal of all charges.

In cross-examination by Principal State Counsel Yusuf Suliaman Koroma, Turay admitted he learned about the incident from a friend in Benguima and a military officer at Wilberforce Barracks. He acknowledged understanding the gravity of the situation and confirmed he attempted to contact Lance Corporal Rachel Kamara, though he could not reach her.

Turay also described his actions on the day of the incident, stating he went to Cockerill to fulfill his duties and protect lives and property. He noted that, due to injuries sustained, he received sympathy from the President and First Lady, and reiterated that he was not part of any faction opposing the government.