The commissioner of Old Jeshwang Prisons, Anna Taro on Wednesday while under cross-examination, denied poor electricity supply system at the Jeshwang Prisons.

Commissioner Taro, who was standing before Principal Magistrate Sheriff Tabally of the Kanifing Magistrates’ Court told the crowded court that the general electricity supply of the Jeshwang Prisons is good and that there is a standby generator and fuel coupons available at the said Prisons.

During cross-examination by Lawyer Moses Richards, counsel for the 1st, 3rd and 6th accused persons in the ongoing criminal trial involving the state against 14 prison officers facing three count-charges; ranging from office breaking, neglect of official duties and stealing, contrary to the Laws of The Gambia, Commissioner Taro said the second accused person, Sgt. Ebrima Jammeh is responsible for closing her office and that of her deputy.

She recalled that on Friday, April 27th she left the office at 12:30pm, with everything in place. She was further asked as to whether she was aware of the report prepared by the Serious Crime Unit, which was addressed to her as the commissioner of the Old Jeshwang Prisons, she replied in the negative.

At that juncture, defence counsel Richards showed her the report, which she was asked to read in court but she replied that she could not read.

“I am putting it to you that whosoever broke that office got access to the key and neither Lamin Jadama, 3rd accused nor Foday Ceesay who were posted at the Adult Wing and Gate respectively could have any idea as to how the breaking could have happened,” defence counsel Richards posed to the witness and she replied that she did not know.

Richards further put it to her that the save that contains the said ammunition and cash was attached to the wall by concrete cement which cannot be removed within one night; and Commissioner Taro responded she does not know. Lawyer Richards again pointed out that the said office was internally broke into and that whosoever broke into the office must have access to the keys. The witness again replied she doesn’t know.

The case was adjourned to the 9th July 2012, for continuation.