THE trial in which three men are accused of murdering a woman at Ogle, East Coast Demerara restarted yesterday before presiding Justice Roxanne George and a 12-member jury. During the empanelment, nine jurors were challenged – three by the prosecution and six by the defence.
Those indicted are Annandram Dhar Amrag, called Alvin “Duck Beak” Allan;
Naresh Boodhoo, called “Allu”, “Alloo” and “Taipaul”; and Hemraj Boodwah, called “Tilly”.
They are accused of murdering Seeragie, called “Prowell Seerajie” and “Lalita”, on 11th February 2006.
Upon agreement by defence and state counsel, the trial began with a voir dire — a trial within a trial – instead of the normal opening address to the jury by the prosecuting counsel.
Defence counsel, Compton Richardson is defending the number 1 accused, while attorney Mr. Peter Hugh is representing numbers 2 and 3 accused.
Among other things, the defence is alleging that two oral statements and an alleged written statement by the accused were not obtained freely and voluntarily, and in accordance with the Judges’ Rules.
The case is being prosecuted by Miss Renita Singh and Miss Konyo Sandiford.
The voir dire began with the jury being sent out of sight and hearing while Ms Renita Singh called her first witness, Assistant Police Supt, Julius Wright.
The hearing continues today.