One Alieu Trawally, an ex-official of the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA) was Tuesday convicted and sentenced by the Special Criminal Court in Banjul presided over by Justice Emmanuel Nkea, after he pleaded guilty to four counts charge of economic crime, conspiracy to defraud and stealing, amongst others.

The particulars of offence amongst others stated that the accused Alieu Trawally, whilst holding public office was alleged to have caused economic loss to the tune of D15,000 by issuing tax clearance certificates without authority. When the case came up, the accused, who had on previous sittings denied the charge, changed his plea to ‘guilty’.

The defence counsel, Borry Touray intimated the court that the family of the accused urged the accused to be truthful to the court by accepting the fact. Borry Touray stated that the accused has frankly admitted his guilt, adding that the accused has been sacked and is no longer in employment.

The defence counsel submitted that strength of the conviction would go a long way in disturbing his career in future if a custodian sentence is imposed on him. He reminded the court that the charge before the court touches on one offence ie a loss of D15,000 to the state.

Touray stated that a person must not be brought to court twice for the same offence and urged the court to give a fine instead of custodial sentence. In passing sentence, Justice Nkea noted that the accused is a first time offender and willing to pay, so the court will give the convict another chance.

The presiding judge then sentenced the accused to pay a fine of D20,000 on each of the counts in default to serve two years imprisonment. He ordered that the sentences run concurrently. The judge finally ordered that the accused restitute the sum of D15,000 to the GRA in default to serve one year imprisonment.