THE murder trial between the State and accused Compton Fernandes began at the Demerara Assizes yesterday with a voir dire (a trial within a trial).

Trial judge, Mr. Justice James Bovell-Drakes decided to conduct a voir dire to determine the admissibility of a caution statement after counsel for the accused Mr. Glenn Hanoman with Miss Lisa Hanoman, objected to the prosecution tendering a caution statement in evidence, on the ground that it was not obtained in accordance with the judges’ Rules.

Leading prosecutor in the cases is Miss Zamilla Ali associated with Miss Judith Gildharie-Mursalin and Miss Shivan Balcharran.

The prosecution closed its case in the voir dire after the calling of one witness – Corporal Devan Cummings, who allegedly took the caution statement from the accused.
The voir die will continue on Monday when the defence will begin its case.