Justice Moses Richards of the Special Criminal Tribunal of the High Court in Banjul has asserted that he would make due consultations and advise himself accordingly in connection with a rape case pending before him.

Justice Richards made the assertions last Friday June 12, 2009, during the hearing of the criminal case involving the State versus Landing Mboob, who is standing trial on charges of rape, contrary to the laws of The Gambia.

It has however been ascertained that the victim's parents have told the court that they have forgiven the accused and are requesting the court to drop the charges against the accused, but the director of public prosecution, DPP is insisting in prosecuting the accused.

Justice Richards intimated that the victim's parents do not have the right to say they do not want to prosecute the accused, even though they have a stake in the matter, noting that the offence the accused is charged with is a capital offence. Justice Richards said it is typical of Gambians to forgive but it is the responsibility of the DPP to exercise his duty of protecting the society and prosecuting law offenders. Justice Richards disclosed that he is mandated to ensure that justice is done.

"In my opinion we can have a way out and since the victim's parents want the charge dropped against the accused, I will take a date to advise myself accordingly after consultation," Justice Richard added. The matter was then adjourned to 26th June 2009.